10 Myths vs. Facts About Cancer and Treatment Options
March 3, 2026
A cancer diagnosis often brings uncertainty and questions about treatment options and outcomes. Many patients turn to family and friends who have previously undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy, but those conversations can sometimes perpetuate outdated perceptions, according to Mark Ashamalla, MD, Chief of Radiation Oncology at Episcopal Health Services.
“Today’s chemotherapy and radiation therapy are very different from what our parents or grandparents experienced,” Dr. Ashamalla says. “Relying on those past experiences can create unnecessary fear or hesitation and delay care. Access to accurate, up-to-date information is essential so patients can make informed decisions and receive timely, effective treatment.
If you have recently been diagnosed and are looking for information you can trust, the following debunks some of the most common myths about cancer and treatment.
Myth: Cancer is a death sentence
Fact: Advances in diagnostic tools and treatments now allow many cancers to be treated or effectively managed much like chronic diseases, enabling patients to maintain productive and fulfilling lives. Achieving the best possible outcomes depends largely on early detection and intervention. Regular screening for breast, colon, lung, cervical and prostate cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term well-being.
Myth: Everyone diagnosed with cancer will need to undergo radiation or chemotherapy
Fact: In many cases, cancer can be effectively treated with surgery alone. However, treatment recommendations are tailored to each patient’s specific diagnosis and the extent of the disease. Depending on these factors, a comprehensive approach that combines surgery with radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be advised to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Myth: Radiation therapy makes people radioactive
Fact: External beam radiation therapy is delivered in high-energy beams that pass through the body, leaving no trace. As a result, cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy are not radioactive and pose no hazard to friends or family.
Myth: Radiation therapy causes skin burns
Fact: Radiation therapy is painless and does not result in skin burns. However, patients may notice some skin irritation, redness, dryness and peeling depending on the treatment site and individual sensitivity. These effects are usually temporary and manageable with supportive care.
Myth: Radiation therapy is time consuming
Fact: Advances in modern radiation therapy technology have significantly shortened treatment sessions, with most lasting only a few minutes each day. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer being treated, some patients may complete their therapy in as little as one day or within a single week, while others may require several weeks of treatment, depending on the particular case. At EHS, we use the TrueBeamTM linear accelerator, which significantly decreases the number of treatment sessions due to its precision and speed.
Myth: Chemotherapy is only delivered by intravenous infusion
Fact: Chemotherapy is medication that can be delivered many ways, including oral pills, injection, implanted drugs and topical solutions, such as creams.
Myth: Everybody who undergoes chemotherapy experiences side effects
Fact: Not everyone will experience side effects, which may include hair loss and nausea. Through research, and the development of new drugs such as biological therapies, also known as immunotherapies, oncology teams are able to deliver more targeted chemotherapy treatments, resulting in fewer and more manageable side effects for many patients.
Myth: It is best to avoid any close physical contact while receiving chemotherapy
Fact: Chemotherapy medications are typically eliminated from the body after 24-48 hours following treatment, making close physical contact is generally safe at that time. However, during the 24-48 hour window after treatment, condoms should be used for protection during intimacy and caregivers should wear gloves to clean up any bodily fluids.
Myth: People who have undergone chemotherapy cannot have children
Fact: In some cases, patients who have undergone chemotherapy may experience infertility. However, there are options available for conceiving after treatment, such as freezing sperm or eggs. Those who have completed treatment and who have not experienced any issues with fertility are often advised to wait a period of time before conceiving, depending on their cancer type and treatment. You should discuss family planning with your oncology team.
Myth: Anyone undergoing chemotherapy or radiation must make work or lifestyle changes
Fact: Many patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy are able to continue working and maintain many of their usual daily activities, including exercise. In fact, staying physically active can help reduce treatment-related fatigue and anxiety. Patients should consult their health care provider for personalized guidance on work and lifestyle considerations based on their specific diagnosis.
While family and friends can offer valuable support and insight, it is important to also speak directly with your health care provider or oncology team. Doing so ensures access to accurate, individualized information about how a diagnosis and treatment plan may affect you, helping you make informed decisions throughout your care.