February is Cancer Prevention Month. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is leading a national campaign to help Americans separate the myths from facts about cancer risk. Throughout the month, AICR will debunk cancer misperceptions and empower Americans with accurate, evidence-based advice on cancer prevention.
MYTH 1:
Cancer is often genetic – I can’t do anything about it
FACT:
Experts say, not true. Even if someone has a genetic mutation known to significantly increase cancer risk — such as the BRCA1 gene that is known to cause breast cancer — it is not certain that the person will eventually get breast cancer. AICR estimates, around 40 percent of cancer cases are preventable. Eating a healthy diet, being more active each day and maintaining a healthy weight are, after not smoking the most important ways you can reduce your cancer risk.
MYTH 2:
Drinking red wine is good for me
FACT:
The headlines around red wine make it tempting to believe that alcohol can be healthy. But the fact is that all alcohol, regardless of the source, is a carcinogen. AICR’s latest report showed that drinking alcohol of any type links to increased risk for breast and several other cancers.
MYTH 3:
Drinking coffee can cause cancer
FACT:
A recent court case in California perpetuated the myth that drinking coffee can cause cancer. Scientists say coffee does not need to carry a cancer warning. In fact, research shows that coffee reduces risk for liver and endometrial cancers.
MYTH 4:
Eating organic fruits and vegetables offer extra protection against cancer
FACT:
Eating a diet rich in plant foods can help reduce the risk of cancer – whether organically or conventionally produced. Research so far has not shown that organically grown foods are more cancer-protective than those grown conventionally.
MYTH 5:
Eating soy increases breast cancer risk
FACT:
Studies have shown that eating whole soy foods may actually reduce risk of cancer for some women. Soy foods can be healthy alternative to meat.
