EVERY year, one in six deaths around the world is caused by cancer, making it the leading cause of mortality worldwide. In 2020, the disease claimed the lives of nearly 10 million people, according to the World Health Organisation.
Health experts encourage screening to ensure early detection so that patients can receive proper treatment as soon as possible.
Some quarters, however, recommend the intake of alternative supplements supposedly aimed at detoxifying the body. A simple Google search will point to plenty of articles, product advertisements and supposed testimonials by former patients.
They claim that toxins are known to cause cancer and removing them from the body will cure the patient. Are there truths to this claim?
Verdict:
FALSE
Firstly, it is useful to understand what is meant by toxins.
According to MedlinePlus, toxins are substances which are poisonous to humans.
They are produced by animals and plants.
Certain substances such as carcinogen are toxins and are known to cause cancer.
Humans may come to ingest toxins through their consumption of processed meat, alcohol and tobacco.
Other sources include air pollution, asbestos and minerals used in construction and manufacturing processes.
Cancer occurs when there is a change in the DNA of the cells, causing the cells to divide and multiply uncontrollably.
Over time, this effect spreads to other parts of the body in a process called metastasis, eventually causing death.
Some people believe that detoxifying the body will reverse this process and gradually cures one of cancer.
However, at present, there is little evidence to support this claim, according to health experts.
Certain regimens - such as colon cleanse and fad diets - may even prove dangerous to the elderly, pregnant women and persons living with certain chronic illnesses.
Rigorous testing involving a large number of people is needed before a treatment can be considered safe and effective.
A patient is advised to consult proper healthcare professionals before pursuing any form of treatment.
References:
1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/
2. https://blog.dana-farber.org/
3. https://www.who.int/news-room/
4. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.
5. https://www.webmd.com/
