I’M A CANCER SPECIALIST – HERE ARE SIX DANGEROUS HEALTH MYTHS YOU SHOULD IGNORE

From when to see a GP to who screening is really for, Professor David Bloomfield, consultant clinical oncologist at Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital, sets the record straight on the most common misconceptions around cancer.

John Wayne coined the term “the big C” in 1964 when he underwent his own cancer diagnosis and surgery. It was all part of the taboo surrounding cancer, and it was his way of avoiding saying the word “cancer”. Society has changed for the better since then, and we are much more open and honest about cancer as a major issue for our health.

Nearly everyone will know a friend or relative who has experienced cancer, which is not surprising given that 50 per cent of the population will have a diagnosis of the disease at some point in their lifetime.

But this frightening statistic hides the fact that with increased diagnosis and vastly improved cancer treatments, survival rates are going up.

Despite this, there are still some common myths that I hear people repeating, which need to be addressed to avoid a lack of, or a late, diagnosis.

‘Age doesn’t really affect your cancer risk’

Cancer rates are rising partly because the population is getting older — you are about 100 times more likely to develop cancer at the age of 70 than at 20. This is because each of the billions of cells in your body must accurately copy itself over your lifetime, and errors become more likely with age. However, cancers in younger people remain significant, and it’s important not to think of cancer as only a disease of the elderly.

‘It’s fine to ignore symptoms’

“It’s a one-off”, “it’s part of ageing”, “I’m just tired”. Changes in the body can be all of these things — but they can also signal something more serious. Some cancers have no symptoms, or only develop them late, but there are often warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Don’t overlook changes in your bowel habits, a persistent unexplained cough or anything unusual in your breasts or testicles. Know what’s normal for you — and if something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. There’s no harm in seeking a second opinion.

‘No need to see a doctor until it gets worse’

Many of us wait for symptoms to worsen before taking action, but early conversations with your GP can make a significant difference. Taking part in national screening programmes and raising concerns early both help reduce the impact of cancer. Cure rates for many cancers are steadily improving, and thanks to advances in treatment, even some advanced cancers can now be managed for years with a good quality of life.

‘If it’s going to happen, it’s out of my hands’

There are steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk. As Michael Pollan puts it: “Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.” Find exercise you enjoy and do it regularly. Protect your skin from sun damage (men, especially, should wear hats more often). Keep an eye on alcohol intake — it can creep up. Most importantly, if you smoke, stop. Your GP can help. And if you’ve quit, ask whether lung cancer screening is available in your area.

‘Screening is only for people at high risk’

Cancer screening is designed to detect disease early, when it’s most treatable — and it’s highly effective. In the UK, women aged 50 to 71 are invited for breast screening every three years, but those over 70 can still self-refer. Cervical screening for those aged 25 to 64 has dramatically reduced deaths through early diagnosis, supported by the HPV vaccination programme offered to school pupils. Bowel cancer is particularly well suited to screening, as it develops slowly over time. The at-home Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) can catch changes early — so it’s vital to complete and return it when invited.

‘You’re only at risk if it runs in the family’

A family history of cancer doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop it. While some cancers do have a stronger genetic link that may need monitoring, most cases occur in people without a clear family history. That’s why screening programmes matter — they are for everyone, not just those with symptoms or a known risk. If you are concerned, speak to your GP about whether further assessment or testing is appropriate. A cancer diagnosis in the family does not make your own inevitable.

2026-04-10T05:51:48Z