This year’s World Cancer Day theme, “Debunking the Myths,” hopes to battle some of the misconceptions about cancer that play a role in delays in screening and treatment.

“A common myth is that children do not get cancer and, if they do, only white children suffer from the disease,” said Francois Peenz, chief executive officer of the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation.

Because of this myth, Peenz estimates that only about half of all the child cancer patients in South Africa are diagnosed and treated each year.

CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation, along with partners like Campaigning for Cancer and the Hospice Palliative Care Association are launching a national cancer anti-stigma campaign,  known as the “Voice of Cancer Anti Stigma Project.” The project aims at increasing cancer awareness, exposing myths and encouraging early detection amongst South Africans.

On the heels of  World Cancer Day, we take a look at four more myths – and truths – about cancer:

• Myth: We don’t need to talk about cancer
• Truth: Cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings. However, dealing with the disease openly can not only help raise awarness but also improve patient outcomes. Learning from other patents who may have experienced the disease can help newly diagnosed patients cope better and feel less alone as they go through treatment.

• Myth: Cancer has no symptoms
• Truth: For many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms. Getting screened and diagnosed early can help increase a patient’s chances of beating the illness.

• Myth: I can’t do anything to prevent cancer
• Truth: There is a lot that can be done to reduce your risk of developing cancer – more than 60 percent of cancers are caused by modifiable lifestyle factors such as diet, and the use of tobacco and alcohol.

• Myth:  I don’t have a right to cancer care.
• Truth: Access to proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms, and without suffering hardship as a consequence is every person’s human right, according to the Union for International Cancer Control. – Health-e News Service.

Read more World Cancer Day coverage from Health-e

• South Africa braces for an increase in cancer cases
• Six steps to reduce your cancer risk