Debunking cancer myths BY DR CORY COUILLARD,,,,,,,,World Health Organization (WHO) statistics show that cancer claimed more than 8.2 million lives in 2012; ranking it as one of the leading causes of death. Cancer cases are expected to rise from 14 million in 2012 to 22 million within the next two decades.

WORLD Cancer Day was celebrated on February 4. Each year the World Health Organisation (WHO) supports the International Union Against Cancer and promotes ways to ease the global burden of cancer. This year's theme was "Debunk the Myths".

Symptoms of cancer metastasis
 depend on the location of the tumor.

The battle against cancer won't be won with treatment alone. Effective prevention measures are urgently needed to stem the ongoing cancer crisis. WHO statistics show that cancer claimed more than 8.2 million lives in 2012; ranking it as one of the leading causes of death. Cancer cases are expected to rise from 14 million in 2012 to 22 million within the next two decades.

The deadliest forms of cancer include lung, liver, stomach, colorectal and breast cancers. About one-third of all cancer cases can be prevented through improving one's diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors while reducing tobacco, alcohol and sugar use. If the current trends continue, cancer is expected to increase by more than 70% in developing countries.

Cancer myth 1 - Cancer is just a health issue. Cancer is not only a serious medical condition but it also has wide-reaching social, familial, economic and discriminatory implications. It is known to affect all ages and socio-economic groups. more