Does cancer feed on sugar? Cancer Triggers: Popular myths about the causes of cancer

Misconceptions about cancer causes may lead to worry about your wellbeing. Find out whether there is any truth to these common myths about the causes of cancer.
By Mayo Clinic Staff

Timothy Moynihan, M.D.

Claims circulate that goods and objects, such as deodorant and plastic, are cancer triggers that are key. A number of these myths might make you worry about your health and the health of your loved ones, beyond being wrong.

Have a look before you panic.

Here, Timothy J. Moynihan, M.D., a cancer specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, takes a closer look at some popular myths about cancer causes and explains why they simply are not correct.
Myth: deodorants or Antiperspirants can lead to breast cancer.

Fact: There is no evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants according to other research and the National Cancer Institute.

Some reports have suggested that these products contain harmful substances like parabens and aluminum compounds which may be absorbed through the skin or enter the body through nicks. No studies have given a definitive reply to the question of whether breast cancer is caused by these goods. However, the evidence to date indicates cancer isn't caused by these products.

If you are still worried that your underarm antiperspirant or deodorant could raise your risk of cancer, select products that don't include.
Myth: wraps and Microwaving plastic containers releases dangerous substances.

Fact: wraps and Microwave-safe plastic containers are safe to use in the microwave.

But containers leak chemicals and possibly could melt. So avoid containers which whipped topping bowls or were never meant for the microwave, such as margarine tubs.

Check to see that is tagged as microwave-safe.
Myth: People with cancer should not eat sugar, as it can lead to cancer to grow.

Fact: Sugar does not make cancer grow. All cells, including cancer cells, depend on blood sugar (glucose) for energy. But their growth does not accelerate. Likewise, their growth does not slow.

This misconception might be based in part on a misunderstanding of positron emission tomography (PET) scans, which use a small number of radioactive tracer -- typically a kind of glucose. Consume greater amounts, although all cells in your body absorb some of the tracer. Because of this, some people have concluded that cancer cells grow . But this isn't correct.

There is some evidence that consuming large amounts of glucose is associated with an elevated risk of cancers. It may also cause weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes and obesity, which might increase the risk of cancer.
Myth people do not get cancer.

Truth: In ancient times, illness was seen as punishment for ideas or actions. In certain cultures that view is held.

If that were true, however, how would you describe the cancer or the 6-month-old? These ones have not been bad.

There's zero evidence that you get cancer because you deserve it.
Myth: Cancer is contagious.

Fact: There is no need to steer clear of. It can't be caught by you. It is OK to touch and spend some time. In actuality, your service may never be more precious.

Itself is not contagious, sometimes may result in cancer's growth. Examples include:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) -- a sexually transmitted disease -- which can cause cervical cancer and other forms of cancer
Hepatitis B or C -- viruses transmitted via sexual intercourse or use of IV needles that are infected -- which can cause liver cancer

Speak with your doctor about ways to protect yourself.