Cancer phobia, also known as carcinophobia, is an anxiety disorder manifested by the chronic fear of developing cancer. It can show as tremendous feelings of sadness, fear, panic and distress. In some cases, the phobia can be so extreme that it prevents the individual from living a normal life.
Carcinophobia might be caused by a traumatic experience, having cancer, watching someone endure it, losing someone to it or even watching a movie that shows the suffering. Family history can also be an underlying cause.
It goes without saying that a half-learned knowledge is more dangerous than not knowing at all! Of course, the Internet provides much information giving you a misbelief that you know everything. But the human body is rather different! The same rules cannot be applied to every individual.The information shared most of the time is people’s personal experience which may range from under scoring of a problem to an overrated representation.
It’s quite true that the incidence of cancer is growing exponentially. Reasons could be many: the increase in environmental toxins; excessive chemicals in food items; radiation hazards; and, most importantly, substance abuse especially alcohol and smoking, which alone cost millions of lives every year.
What should we do?
In most cases, cancer does not progress fast without any warning signs.
Additionally, it can be difficult in some societies where exposing such diseases is considered a social stigma which only defers early diagnosis and treatment.
Tips for Reducing the Fear of Cancer
• Fear sells and you may be manipulated – shield yourself from inauthentic social media.
• Don’t correlate every health issue with cancer as the first diagnosis.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, this is the least you can do to avoid the risk.
An early visit to a specialist is the final answer to avoid the burden of this anxious situation. In unfortunate circumstances, if someone is proven to be a case of cancer, it is far easier to tackle this deadly disease in its nascent stage.
Call 17 812-000 or 17 812-222 or email: [email protected]
