Cancer Deaths Are Down, So Why Does Cancer Still Scare Us?

Cancer deaths have dropped significantly, nearly one-third since 1991, according to the American Cancer Society. Despite this good news, fear of cancer, or cancerphobia, remains high. Why does cancer still scare us so much?

Increased Awareness and Fear

Jessy Levin, a psychologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, explains that we’re more open about discussing illnesses like cancer. While openness reduces stigma, frequent stories about celebrities battling cancer, such as King Charles and Princess Catherine, can increase fear.

---

Common Fears About Cancer

People fear many aspects of cancer, including:

• Treatment and Side Effects: Concerns about radiation, chemotherapy, and their side effects.
• Pain and Suffering: Worries about the physical pain and discomfort.
• Recurrence and Mortality: Fear of the cancer returning and the possibility of dying.

These fears persist despite medical advances. Cancer used to be seen as a death sentence, but modern treatments have improved survival rates significantly. For example, the five-year survival rate for testicular cancer is now 95%, up from 80% in 1975 (National Cancer Institute).

Cancer Treatment Advances

Today, the overall five-year survival rate for all cancers is over 69%, compared to about 50% in 1975. Modern therapies, including immunotherapies, often have fewer side effects than older treatments. Experts recommend getting accurate information about your specific type of cancer to help reduce fear.

Outdated Anxieties and Unnecessary Treatments

David Ropeik, author of “Curing Cancerphobia,” argues that our fear of cancer hasn’t caught up with medical progress. Many cancers can now be treated as chronic conditions or cured. However, fear leads to unnecessary surgeries and treatments, such as prostatectomies and mastectomies for cancers that might not need such aggressive approaches.

Perceived Lack of Control

Levin and Ropeik agree that feeling powerless against cancer makes the fear worse. We want to believe we can avoid or control it, but cancer often feels uncontrollable.

---

Reducing Cancer Risk

While cancer cannot be completely prevented, there are ways to reduce your risk:

1. Don’t Smoke: Quitting smoking lowers the risk of several types of cancer.
2. Healthy Diet: Eating less meat and processed food and more vegetables, whole grains, and fish.
3. Exercise and Sunscreen: Regular physical activity and protecting your skin from the sun.
4. Preventive Screenings: Regular check-ups and screenings for early detection.

---

Managing Cancer Anxiety

Here are some strategies to manage cancer anxiety:

1. Mind-Body Interventions: Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness meditation, and relaxation exercises can help. Creative arts can also be a useful outlet.
2. Talk About Your Fears: Discussing your anxieties can make them less daunting. Avoidance doesn’t reduce risk but may limit your options.
3. Seek Help: It’s okay to ask for support from therapists, social workers, religious leaders, and support groups. Friends and family can also provide valuable assistance.
4. Learn from Others: Talk to people who have undergone cancer treatment to understand their experiences and gain perspective.

Conclusion

Cancer fear can sometimes be more harmful than the disease itself. Beth Rosenberg, a retired cardiologist, noted that fear of diagnosis often leads to delays in seeking treatment, worsening outcomes. Early detection and prompt treatment can significantly improve survival rates and reduce suffering.

For more information on reducing cancer risk and managing cancer anxiety, visit the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute websites.

---

References:

• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute