If you or someone you love is facing cancer, it’s normal to have a lot of questions and it’s natural to turn to the internet for answers. Online, you can connect to stories, support and education. But you may also find myths and misinformation that could be misleading or even dangerous.
Sorting facts from fiction is key to making the best choices for your care. Here’s what you need to know about common myths and how to find guidance you can count on from providers you can trust.
Why online cancer misinformation is risky
Social media, blogs and forums make it easy for anyone to share advice about cancer. Some of this information can be helpful, but other content could be misleading or even harmful. Following unproven online health myths can cause stress and even put your health at risk.
“Misinformation may lead you to avoid or delay standard, established medical care in favor of unproven alternative therapies that may not be safe or effective,” said I. Alex Bowman, MD, a medical oncologist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.
“Those who are providing misinformation may have a financial incentive. Misinformation is often used to drive internet traffic to websites or social media platforms or to sell supplements or alternative therapies. Some of these therapies can be harmful,” Dr. Bowman said.
Common myths about cancer prevention
You may have heard some of these cancer prevention myths. Here are the facts.
Myth: Superfoods can prevent cancer.
Fact: No single food can prevent cancer. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and lean proteins helps lower risk but there are no “magic foods.”
Myth: Detoxes and cleanses remove cancer-causing toxins.
Fact: Your liver and kidneys already detox your body. Cleanses and detox products usually have no proven benefit and may even be harmful.
Myth: Microwaves or cell phones cause cancer.
Fact: There’s no evidence that everyday use of cell phones or microwaves causes cancer.
Myth: Sugar causes cancer.
Fact: Sugar does not cause cancer. “Cancer cells are very good at getting nutrients and will do so regardless of whether you change your diet. Avoiding sugar is not likely to control or treat cancer,” Dr. Bowman said. It’s still a good idea to limit sugar, though, because eating less sugar is better for your overall health.
Myths about cancer treatment
There are also a lot of cancer treatment myths. Here’s what to know.
Myth: Natural remedies can cure cancer.
Fact: Some natural or alternative therapies may help manage symptoms but there are no natural cancer cures. Relying on natural remedies alone can delay treatment that can work.
Myth: Chemotherapy always makes you extremely sick.
Fact: Side effects are different for everyone. Advances in supportive care and new treatment options have made chemotherapy treatment easier for a lot of people.
Myth: Antiparasitic drugs can treat cancer.
Fact: Trials of veterinary medications that kill parasites, like ivermectin and fenbendazole, have not shown any benefit in treating cancer in humans. These medications may cause liver damage and gastrointestinal problems and may interfere with other medications. “It is important to tell your doctor if you are using or considering these medications,” Dr. Bowman said.
Myth: Alkaline therapy can treat cancer.
Fact: Cancer is not caused by acidity within the body, although cancer may change acidity in tissues where it’s found. “Treatments that claim to change the body’s acidity, like alkaline therapy, have not been shown to work,” Dr. Bowman said.
Myth: If cancer spreads, nothing can be done.
Fact: Even when cancer has spread, treatments such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy and clinical trials may still be effective.
The danger of “miracle cures” online
Unproven “miracle cures” are often promoted on social media or sold as supplements. These products are not reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and they may not be safe. Choosing these over evidence-based medicine could cause harm or could give cancer time to spread.
“Cancer is a complex and diverse collection of diseases, and you should be skeptical of any treatments claiming to be widely effective against ‘cancer,’” Dr. Bowman said. “Anything that sounds too good to be true probably is.”
“Individual patient stories or anecdotes may be compelling but without knowing the context, it is difficult or impossible to evaluate their claims,” Dr. Bowman said.
Keep in mind that people don’t usually publicize when a treatment doesn’t work or has serious side effects, especially if they stand to make money from the treatment.
The rise of cancer influencers and patient stories
Many people with cancer share their experiences on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and blogs. These patient cancer stories can be inspiring and help you feel less alone. You may appreciate the sense of understanding you get from cancer support online from others who are dealing with similar challenges.
But it’s important to remember:
- Every cancer type, stage and treatment plan is unique and you need personalized cancer treatment.
- What works for one person may not be safe or effective for someone else.
- Following cancer influencer advice without checking with your doctor may make it take longer for you to get the care you need.
Your best option is to use patient stories for encouragement and community, not for medical advice.
How to evaluate online cancer advice
Here are some ways to check for reliable cancer information and safe online health advice:
- Look for content from trusted sources such as cancer centers, research hospitals or peer-reviewed journals.
- Be suspicious if the advice promises a quick cure or uses only personal testimonials as proof.
- Question information that asks you to pay for “secret” treatments.
- Talk to your health care provider before trying anything you find online. Your provider can share the facts about evidence-based cancer care.
When to talk to a cancer specialist
“If you are thinking about making a change to your cancer regimen, please tell your doctor. Your doctor needs to be aware of any supplements or alternative medications you are taking, to make sure there are no drug interactions or side effects they need to watch for,” Dr. Bowman said.
Not all online cancer advice is safe, and misinformation can lead to stress, poor decisions or treatment delays. Trust science, rely on your care team and use online content carefully.
“Many clinics and hospitals have providers trained in integrative and complementary medicine. They can discuss the risks and benefits of many alternative therapies and help you integrate them into your comprehensive cancer treatment plan,” Dr. Bowman said.
It’s natural to have questions after reading about cancer online. Bring your concerns to a qualified cancer specialist. At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our team is here to guide you through prevention, diagnosis and treatment with the latest evidence-based care.
For clear answers or a second opinion, connect with one of our cancer specialists today.
