Myths & Facts About Cancer
There is a lot of information about cancer available, but some of it is misleading or wrong. Below are the facts behind some of the most common cancer myths and misconceptions. Your health care team is also a good resource if you have any questions about the accuracy of anything you hear or read. MYTH: Cancer is contagious. FACT: Cancer is not contagious . However, some cancers are caused by viruses and bacteria that can be spread from person to person. Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been known to cause cervical, anal, and some kinds of head and neck cancers. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are viruses that increase the risk of developing liver cancer. Bacteria like H. pylori can cause stomach cancer. It is important to remember that while the viruses and bacteria that cause some cancers can be spread from person to person, the cancers they cause cannot be spread from person to person. MYTH: If you have a family history of cancer, you will get it too. FACT: Althou...