Childhood cancer misconceptions

 

Misconception: Childhood Cancer is Extremely Common

Fact: Childhood cancer accounts for a mere fraction, or less than 1%, of total cancer cases.

While the diagnosis can be wrenching for families, improvements in treatment allow most kids to survive their cancer in high income countries. However the survival rate in low income countries lies by around 30% only.

Misconception: Childhood Cancer is Always Genetic or Environmental 

Fact: Most people mistakenly believe that childhood cancer is due to genetics or environmental factors.

Many childhood cancers arise due to genetic mutations or other non-contagious factors.

Misconception: Childhood Cancer is Contagious

Fact: Childhood cancer is not contagious. Believing in such myths perpetuates unwarranted fear and stigma.

Understanding that cancer arises from genetic mutations or other non-contagious factors is essential for dispelling misconceptions surrounding the transmission of the disease.

Misconception: Childhood Cancer is Always Fatal

Fact: While childhood cancer is serious, it is not a definitive death sentence.

Advances in treatment, like more effective chemotherapy drugs, have greatly improved the prognosis for many kids with cancer. 


Early detection significantly improves the chances of survival. Therefore, it is crucial for all of us to be aware of the early signs of cancer.

Remember, accurate information helps dispel myths and provides hope for families facing childhood cancer.

 

Note: The statistics provided are based on expert sources and highlight the disparities in childhood cancer outcomes between different income settings.112233

Learn more

1 who.int   2 paho.org   3 who.int   4 theguardian.com

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