Cancer myths
Around 4 in 10 cancers could be prevented by things such as not smoking, keeping a healthy weight and cutting back on alcohol.
But stories about possible cancer causes often make the news, and it isn’t always clear which ideas are supported by good evidence.
Do mobile phones cause cancer?
The non-ionising radiation from mobile phones and phone masts is too weak to damage DNA and doesn’t cause cancer.
Do artificial sweeteners cause cancer?
No, artificial sweeteners in our food and drink, like aspartame, do not increase the risk of cancer.
Can eating burnt foods cause cancer?
Eating foods high in acrylamide, like toast, charred root vegetables or roast potatoes will not increase your risk of cancer.
Does using plastic bottles and containers cause cancer?
Drinking from plastic bottles or using plastic containers and food bags won’t increase your risk of cancer.
Do genetically modified foods cause cancer?
Eating genetically modified (GM) foods doesn’t cause cancer.
Can pesticides or herbicides cause cancer?
Eating foods grown on farms that use pesticides or herbicides doesn’t increase cancer risk.
Do medical scans and air travel cause cancer?
Some medical scans, including x-rays, use small amounts of ionising radiation. But the health risks are low and usually outweighed by the benefit of having a scan, if your doctor recommends it.
Can cosmetics cause cancer?
Using cosmetics doesn't cause cancer. UK law is very strict about ingredients in cosmetics.
Can an injury or blow to the breast cause cancer?
Injury, trauma, or a blow to the breast does not cause cancer.
Can milk and dairy products cause cancer?
Eating and drinking milk and dairy can reduce the risk of bowel cancer. But there is no proof it affects the risk of any other cancer type.
