7 Good news for those who are afraid of suffering from cancer

It is no exaggeration to say that cancer scares people more than any other disease. This problem is often seen as a death sentence and the way in which some media address the issue makes a good part of society create a kind of phobia in relation to the subject. There are those who are so afraid of suffering from cancer that they seem to “find” symptoms of the disease in themselves, even if it is the slightest sign of any discomfort.

We, from incredible.club, we are also not free from “oncophobia”. However, we believe that it is necessary to demystify the issue and put an end to unfounded fears as soon as possible. Therefore, we have prepared 7 comforting information about this, which is the most feared disease in the world.

Many people who have signs such as moles and dark spots are afraid of the possible appearance of melanoma. But we have good news about this: when there is hair growing in one of these moles, it is because it is benign. If the hair managed to grow, it is because the structure of the skin has not been altered. When there is a malignant formation in the skin, the channels through which hair grows cannot form.

However, even if a sign that previously had hair suddenly stops having them, it is not necessarily related to cancer. But in any case it is better to consult a specialist.

Practically all benign tumors remain benign, with rare exceptions – one of them are intestinal polyps, which must be removed, as they can evolve into cancer. On the other hand, many breast tumors, such as fibroadenomas, do not become cancerous, as do ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids.

Most malignant tumors do not hurt. So if there are any painful bumps on or under your skin, it’s probably not cancer. However, there may be a dangerous infection that needs to be treated, so it’s always a good idea to see a doctor.

If you’ve been suffering from coughs, headaches or swelling in your belly for years, for example, this has nothing to do with oncology. Keep in mind that if it was cancer, it would have ended your life a long time ago. But there is a possibility that there is another type of disease, less dangerous, but unpleasant. Again, here’s the tip: look for an expert.

A bump that appears and then disappears, a rash that disappears after a week, or a discharge that stops suddenly cannot be cancer. Cancer usually has symptoms that get worse over time. The exception to the rule are intestinal cases: they cause bloody diarrhea that may come and go.

There is an impression that there are more young patients being diagnosed with cancer, but this is not the case. For example, in Russia, the average age of people suffering from the problem in 2007 was 63.5 years, while in 2017 it was 64.5. In the US, the average age of cancer patients is 66 years; people under the age of 20 represent about 1% of all cases. Another number: the most susceptible to the disease are those over 55 years old, who represent about 80% of occurrences. What happens is that today we have more access to information about cancer patients through communication vehicles, social networks and non-profit organizations. And this greater access to information is positive, both from the point of view of research and diagnosis.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 30 and 50% of cancer cases can be prevented only by adopting healthier habits. Below is a series of evidence-based tips on how to protect yourself against the disease:

Do not smoke. Do not allow other people to smoke in your home or workplace. Control your weight. Move more, avoiding sedentary lifestyle. Eat lots of whole grain products, vegetables and fruits. Limit your intake of high-calorie foods, sweetened drinks, red meats, and high-salt foods. Avoid alcohol abuse. Drink, at most, moderately. Avoid exposing yourself to a lot of solar radiation, including that from artificial sources, such as tanning beds — in Brazil, this type of service has been prohibited by law for 10 years. Avoid contact with carcinogens at work; follow safety rules. Vaccinate your children.

For women:

Breastfeed your baby. Limit the use of hormone replacement therapies.

Are you one of those who have a phobia of cancer? Do you also have the impression that the disease is affecting younger people? Comment!