Cancer Myths vs Facts
Debunking Cancer Myths
Why This Anti-Stigma Campaign is important
Across South Africa, too many people still face fear, shame, and judgement when they hear the word cancer. Stigma stops people from talking about symptoms, going for screening, or seeking treatment early and that silence can cost lives.
The Cancer Anti-Stigma Campaign was created to change this. By tackling misinformation and creating open conversations, we want South Africans to understand that cancer is not contagious, not a curse, and not a death sentence. It is a medical condition that can often be treated successfully if detected early.
This campaign gives patients, survivors, families, and communities the knowledge and confidence to face cancer with understanding instead of fear.
The Impact of Myths on Communities
Myths and misinformation about cancer run deep in many parts of our country.
They can make people believe that:
- Only certain groups get cancer.
- Cancer is caused by curses, witchcraft, or punishment.
- Talking about cancer brings bad luck.
- Nothing can be done once you are diagnosed.
These beliefs have real-world consequences. People hide their illness, delay visiting a doctor, or stop treatment halfway because they are afraid of being judged. Families sometimes distance themselves from loved ones who are sick. In some communities, children with cancer are still believed not to exist — or only to affect white families.
This misunderstanding leads to late diagnoses, avoidable deaths, and unnecessary suffering. It also prevents communities from supporting one another with compassion and knowledge.
Our Response: Taking Action in Communities
To help change these stories, Campaigning for Cancer NPC has launched the Cancer Anti-Stigma Campaign in Soweto, starting at the Baragwanath Taxi Rank and surrounding areas — one of the busiest community hubs in the country.
Our team is out on the ground engaging directly with the public and handing out Daily Sun newspapers that feature real stories and articles about cancer stigma. These stories help people see the truth through the eyes of survivors, families, and health professionals.
We’ve also invited journalists and local influencers to join the campaign and use their platforms to spread accurate information online. Together, they’re helping us spark conversations across Gauteng and beyond — reminding South Africans that this campaign is for everyone, everywhere in the country.
By bringing the message to everyday spaces and digital platforms, we’re building a national movement that replaces fear with facts, stigma with support, and silence with understanding.
Myths vs Facts
Myth: Cancer is a death sentence
Myth: Only old people get cancer
Myth: Cancer is contagious
Myth: Wearing bras or deodorant causes cancer
Myth: Children don’t get cancer
Myth: Cancer only runs in the family
Myth: Cancer is a curse or punishment
Myth: There is nothing I can do about cancer
Show the Facts. Dispel the Myths. Get Involved.
Myths lose their power when we replace them with facts.
By learning the truth about cancer and sharing it with others, we can help change how our communities see this disease.
When people know the facts, they are more likely to go for screening, support loved ones and seek treatment early. Every conversation makes a difference — whether it’s at home, at work, in a taxi, or on social media.
Help us fight cancer stigma.
Read, learn, and share the truth.
Together, we can replace fear with understanding and build a South Africa where no one faces cancer alone.
