Myths and misinformation around cancer are everywhere – but understanding the truth is crucial. Here are seven big misconceptions, explained

Is cancer contagious? Do mobile phones cause cancer? Does eating sugar make cancer worse? Based on the latest research, the answer to all of these questions is no. But according to the National Cancer Institute in the US, they are among the most common myths associated with cancer. With one in two of us in the UK likely to experience a form of the disease at some point in our lifetimes, it is understandable that certain fallacies can take hold within popular culture.

However, such mistaken beliefs can impact the public perception of cancer for the worse, and in some cases even prevent patients from seeking the most recommended courses of treatment. Here are seven of the most common public misconceptions that experts at Worldwide Cancer Research – a charity based in Edinburgh – have encountered.