Disclaimer: This article should not be considered medical advice. Readers are recommended to seek guidance from their doctors for an accurate diagnosis.

In an era where information is readily available at our fingertips, it's easy to fall prey to misinformation, especially when it comes to health-related topics.

One such area is cancer, a disease that has been the subject of numerous myths and misconceptions.

From the dangers of burnt toast to the alleged risks of mobile phones and artificial sweeteners, these myths have been circulating for years, causing unnecessary fear and confusion.

Let's separate fact from fiction as we shed light on the truth behind these common cancer myths and debunk them with accurate, evidence-based information.



Mobile Phones and Cancer: A Connection?

For years, rumours have circulated that the electromagnetic radiation or waves emitted by mobile phones can cause cancer.

This fear has led many to worry about keeping their phones close to their bodies.

However, according to a 2018 study by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) there is no substantial evidence to support this claim.

Mobile phones function by sending and receiving electromagnetic waves to and from phone masts.

In addition, Cancer Research UK says that while high-energy radiation can indeed cause cancer by damaging DNA, the radiation emitted by phones is so weak that it does not have this effect.

Even with the advent of 4G and 5G networks, which rely on higher frequency radio waves, the energy is still insufficient to damage DNA.

However, as the technology is still relatively new, scientists continue monitoring research in this field to track potential long-term effects.

So, while it's always wise to use technology responsibly, there's no need to panic about your mobile phone causing cancer.



The Burnt Toast Controversy

Another common myth is that eating burnt toast can increase your risk of cancer.

This belief stems from the fact that burnt toast, along with charred root vegetables and roast potatoes, contains a chemical called acrylamide.

This chemical naturally occurs in foods that have been cooked at high temperatures for extended periods.

While some studies have linked acrylamide to cancer in laboratory animals, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) states that there’s no direct evidence that it can cause cancer in humans.

Furthermore, acrylamide has only been proven to be carcinogenic in animals, at doses much higher than those found in human food.

Instead of focusing on how you cook your food, experts suggest paying more attention to what you're eating.

Processed meats like bacon, regardless of how they're cooked, have been linked to an increased likelihood of developing bowel cancer.

This is due to the presence of nitrates and nitrites, chemicals that preserve meat but have been associated with damage to the cells lining the bowel.



Stress and Cancer: Is There a Link?

Stress is often blamed for a multitude of health issues, including cancer. However, the evidence supporting a direct link between stress and cancer, particularly breast cancer, is weak.

A 15-year prospective study of Australian women at increased risk of familial breast cancer found no association between acute and chronic stressors, social support, optimism, or other emotional characteristics and the risk of breast cancer.

However, it's worth noting that stressful situations can make it harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which can indirectly increase cancer risk.



Artificial Sweeteners: A Sweet Danger?

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, found in diet fizzy drinks, chewing gum, and toothpaste, have been under scrutiny for their potential link to cancer.

While there is some evidence suggesting aspartame can cause cancer, The World Health Organization (WHO) said the quantities required for this effect are extremely large—more than a dozen cans of diet fizzy drink a day.

In 2018, an Australian cohort study found no association between artificially sweetened beverage intake and the risk of obesity-related cancers.



Plastic Bottles and Cancer: A Clear Misconception?

Plastic water bottles, lunch boxes, and food packaging have long been feared to contain cancer-causing chemicals.

One such chemical is Bisphenol A (BPA), found in plastic bottles and containers, which is thought to disrupt hormones.

While BPA has been linked to a range of health issues, including reproductive health problems, diabetes, and obesity, according to epidemiology studies where FSANZ responded, there was no association between BPA and deaths from cancer.



In conclusion, while it's essential to be aware of potential cancer risks, it's equally important to separate fact from fiction.

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle are your best defence against cancer. Always consult with healthcare professionals for accurate information and advice.

You may also be on the lookout for some habits that may increase your risk of having cancer according to a cancer dietician. You can read more about it here.


What are your thoughts on these cancer myths? Have you heard of any others? Share your thoughts in the comments below.