Feeling bloated after meals? Gastroenterologist shares the benefits of post-meal ‘fart walks’ to ease discomfortGoing for a short walk after meals – popularised as “fart walks” on social media – is a simple way to get your digestive tract moving and ease bloating. Published on: May 27
IIT Madras graduate rejected ₹10 LPA job for UPSC, later found success through trading: 'Never give up'An X post detailed the man’s 12-year struggle through UPSC preparation, failed career shifts, heartbreak and unemployment before finding success through trading Published on: May 27
Penpa Tsering sworn in for second term as head of Tibet’s 'government-in-exile' in DharamshalaTsering said that "Middle Way Policy" which seeks a resolution to the Sino-Tibet conflict through non-violence, dialogue and mutual benefit would be lasting. Updated on: May 27
Man serves lemon juice as prashad in office prank, colleagues’ reactions go viralA light-hearted office moment captured on Instagram shows lemon juice being served as prashad. Published on: May 27, 2026 4:47 PM IST By Vaishali Kapila Share via Copy link Office life can feel repetitive at times
The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the government’s retrospective imposition of 28% Goods and Service Tax (GST) on companies, backing tax demands on past transactions in a ruling that could have major financial implications for the sector
India opens ₹15,000 crore race to build AMCA stealth fighterThe shortlisted bidders are: Tata Advanced Systems Limited; Larsen and Toubro plus Bharat Electronics Limited, and Bharat Forge plus Bharat Earth Movers Limited Updated on: May 27, 2026 4:56 PM IST By Shishir Gupta Share via Copy link
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla asked the international community for urgent help to prevent disaster in his country, which is under a U.S. energy blockade, in a speech to the UN Security Council on Tuesdayc(May 26, 2026). “I call on the international community to mobilize to
The Assam Assembly on Wednesday passed the Uniform Civil Code bill seeking to ban polygamy and make the registration of live-in relationships compulsory, even as the Opposition demanded that it should be sent to a select committee for scrutiny
Googling symptoms and panicking about cancer? Oncologist debunks 4 common myths
Googling symptoms and panicking about cancer? Oncologist debunks 4 common myths: ‘Not caused by high blood sugar…’
Googling symptoms and panicking about cancer? Oncologist debunks 4 common myths: ‘Not caused by high blood sugar…’
If you get easily swept away by cancer-related half-truths you read online, find out what an oncologist has to say about the misconceptions.
Published on: Mar 06, 2026 5:28 PM IST By Adrija Dey Share via Copy link Anytime someone encounters a concerning or slightly unusual symptom, many immediately hop on the internet, googling the signs. But more often than not, anxiety surges when a simple headache is linked to something as serious as cancer, or when every other person on social media claims carcinogenic content in common everyday foods. It is natural to feel worried and fall into the rabbit hole of overthinking and spiralling.ALSO READ: Oncologist explains how even ‘1 drink a day’ can slowly increase your risk of oral cancer; shares early warning signs Find out which myths you may be believing in that you need to unlearn. (Unsplash) But it is important to cut through the noise and take a step back to separate facts from half-truths. Cancer requires awareness, but not panic. Understanding what is medically accurate and what is simply a myth can make a crucial difference in how people seek help. Unnecessary panic may even cause some delay in medical help due to pure terror. HT Lifestyle spoke to Dr Kartik Krishnan, a surgical oncologist at the Head Neck Cancer Institute of India, who helped debunk the common myths that oncologists often end up hearing while treating cancer patients. He reminded that any search engine or anything found online is not a replacement for an in-person doctor consultation.
1. The sugar myth: ‘Sugar feeds cancer’
Often people are advised against sweet treats because of cancer risks. (Unsplash) Sugar, time and again, has been demonised, urging for a blanket ban on sugar, as it would help fight cancer by starving it. Here's where it is wrongly interpreted. The oncologist explained why it makes no clinical sense, “Cancer is not caused by high blood sugar, and neither does sugar feed cancer. Like all healthy cells in our body, the cancer cells too consume glucose (sugar) to remain metabolically active, thus cutting off sugar when not necessary will weaken the human body.”2. The biopsy myth: ‘Surgery spreads the disease’
A biopsy is a test which the doctors ask for to ascertain cancer risk. Dr Krishnan explained, “A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue (sample) from a suspicious area to be evaluated under a microscope, it can also help doctors decide the right course of treatment if cancer is detected.” But the myth associated with this test is that a biopsy spreads cancer. How much of it is true? “While there is an extremely small number of cases where biopsies can dislodge cancer cells, the possibility of it spreading cancer is extremely low," the oncologist dispelled the doubt. In fact, not getting a biopsy when required is even more dangerous.3. The ‘natural’ myth: ‘Herbal remedies are safer’
There is a common belief that anything labelled as ‘natural’ automatically means it is healthy. If an ingredient or remedy is rooted in herbs or natural sources, many people assume it is safer or better for the body. This perception is also seen for cancer treatment. However, the oncologist called this notion unscientific, refuting claims that natural remedies can act as a ‘non-toxic’ treatment for cancer. “There is no ‘non-toxic’ alternative to curing cancer. No herb, spice, or diet alone can cure cancer,” the oncologist firmly voiced. Something even more alarming? Some of these natural remedies can actually interfere with the working of life-saving drugs, rendering them less effective or, in some cases, more toxic.4. The genetic risk myth: ‘It does not run in my family’
Many believe that the risk of cancer largely stems from genetic factors, which can create a false sense of reassurance. The oncologist recalled hearing things from patients like: “No one in my family had cancer, so I'm safe." But he disclosed a reality that challenges this assumption. "In reality, only 5 per cent to 10 per cent of cancers are hereditary. The vast majority (90 per cent+) are caused by lifestyle, environmental factors, and random genetic mutations that occur as we age.” While you may have internet at your disposal, providing you with information at the click of a finger, the oncologist advised it should not be the first resort for medical advice. It is better to visit a doctor if one faces any worrying symptoms. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Adrija Dey Adrija Dey’s proclivity for observation fuels her storytelling instinct. As a lifestyle journalist, she crafts compelling, relatable narratives across diverse touchpoints of the human experience, including wellness, mental health, relationships, interior design, home decor, food, travel, and fashion that gently nudge readers toward living a little better. For her, stories exist in flesh and bones, carried by human vessels and shaped through everyday endeavours. It is the small stories we live and share that make us human. After all, humans and their lores are the most natural and raw repositories of stories, and uncovering them, for her, is akin to peeling an orange under a winter afternoon sun. Always up for a chat, she believes the best stories come from unfiltered yapping, where "too much information" is kind of the point. A graduate of Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi, and an alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi, Adrija spends her idle hours cocooned with herbal tea and a gripping thriller, scribbling inner monologues she loosely calls poetic pieces, often with her succulents in attendance. On lazier days, she can be found binge-watching, for the nth time, one from her comfort-show holy trinity: The Office (US), Brooklyn Nine-Nine, or Modern Family. Dancing by herself to her peppy playlists, however, is an everyday ritual she swears by religiously.Read More Sugar Cancer Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs. News / Lifestyle / Health / Googling Symptoms And Panicking About Cancer? Oncologist Debunks 4 Common Myths: ‘Not Caused By High Blood Sugar…’ See Less
Anytime someone encounters a concerning or slightly unusual symptom, many immediately hop on the internet, googling the signs. But more often than not, anxiety surges when a simple headache is linked to something as serious as cancer, or when every other person on social media claims carcinogenic content in common everyday foods. It is natural to feel worried and fall into the rabbit hole of overthinking and spiralling.
ALSO READ: Oncologist explains how even ‘1 drink a day’ can slowly increase your risk of oral cancer; shares early warning signs
But it is important to cut through the noise and take a step back to separate facts from half-truths. Cancer requires awareness, but not panic. Understanding what is medically accurate and what is simply a myth can make a crucial difference in how people seek help. Unnecessary panic may even cause some delay in medical help due to pure terror.
HT Lifestyle spoke to Dr Kartik Krishnan, a surgical oncologist at the Head Neck Cancer Institute of India, who helped debunk the common myths that oncologists often end up hearing while treating cancer patients. He reminded that any search engine or anything found online is not a replacement for an in-person doctor consultation.
Sugar, time and again, has been demonised, urging for a blanket ban on sugar, as it would help fight cancer by starving it. Here's where it is wrongly interpreted. The oncologist explained why it makes no clinical sense, “Cancer is not caused by high blood sugar, and neither does sugar feed cancer. Like all healthy cells in our body, the cancer cells too consume glucose (sugar) to remain metabolically active, thus cutting off sugar when not necessary will weaken the human body.”
Something even more alarming? Some of these natural remedies can actually interfere with the working of life-saving drugs, rendering them less effective or, in some cases, more toxic.
But he disclosed a reality that challenges this assumption. "In reality, only 5 per cent to 10 per cent of cancers are hereditary. The vast majority (90 per cent+) are caused by lifestyle, environmental factors, and random genetic mutations that occur as we age.”
While you may have internet at your disposal, providing you with information at the click of a finger, the oncologist advised it should not be the first resort for medical advice. It is better to visit a doctor if one faces any worrying symptoms.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: Googling Symptoms And Taking Painkillers Manoj Bajpayee is always panicking before starting a new project Swiss Toilet Rule Leaves Late-Night Poopers Panicking How to read health news without panicking CBSE Class 11 YouTube Now Offers AI-Powered Search Feature For More Users But Not In India Siri’s Big Upgrade Independence Day 2025 3-Month CAT 2025 Preparation Plan Bank Of Maharashtra Is Hiring For 500 Generalist Officer Posts
LIC shares fall 3 percent as reports say India plans 2 percent stake sale to institutional investors. LIC (Life Insurance Corporation) shares slipped 3 per cent intraday on Wednesday, following the reports suggest the government is planning to sale 2 per cent stake from the insurance behemoth next
1 days ago
The rupee slipped 8 paise to 95.78 against U.S. dollar in early trade on Wednesday (May 27, 2026) on elevated crude oil prices as fresh U.S. strikes dampened optimism for an imminent U.S.-Iran peace deal. Forex traders said escalating U.S.-Iran conflict is again boosting safe-haven demand for the
1 days ago
‘India is dirtiest country’: Vlogger praises Sri Lanka, critiques India’s tourism decline due to poor cleanlinessShenaz Treasury criticised India's cleanliness issues, stating they deter tourists and compared the poor civic sense in the country to that in Sri Lanka. Updated on: May 27
1 days ago
Fresh public outrage has erupted over the infamous May 2024 Pune Porsche car accident case after a controversial video surfaced on social media, allegedly showing the prime accused and builder Vishal Agarwal celebrating with his family. Vishal Agarwal
1 days ago
Demolish all illegal structures within 15 km of international border: Amit ShahDemolish all illegal structures within 15 km of international border: Amit Shah Published on: May 27, 2026 2:00 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed the authorities to
1 days ago
Vinai Venkatesham was upbeat when he began his new job as Tottenham Hotspur chief executive last summer. His outlook quickly changed. To say his first season in charge did not go to plan would be an understatement. And in a wide-ranging exclusive 50-minute interview with BBC Sport
1 days ago
Canada said on Tuesday (May 26, 2026) it will temporarily ban residents from three African countries amid an Ebola outbreak. Residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan will be banned from entering Canada for 90 days starting on Wednesday (May 27, 2026)
1 days ago
A Delhi court on Tuesday sought a response from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to a petition filed by Delhi-based activist and writer Harsh Mander seeking the registration of a first information report against him for alleged hate speech, Live Law reported
1 days ago
Stray dog at Hyderabad airport lounge seen eating leftovers, sparks hygiene debateA stray dog spotted at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport lounge in Hyderabad has gone viral after being seen eating leftovers. Published on: May 27, 2026 2:03 PM IST By Vaishali Kapila Share via Copy link A video
1 days ago
Blue Moon 2026: 4 zodiac signs that could reconnect with an ex during the May 2026 Full MoonAccording to Sidhharrth S Kumaar, this Full Moon, you may find yourself thinking about someone from your past, or even hearing from them unexpectedly. Updated on: May 27
1 days ago
Kareena Kapoor's nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar shares 3 desi hacks to beat the heat naturally at home: Wala roots to…To combat heat, Rujuta Diwekar recommends adding vetiver roots to water, applying henna to the hands and drinking buttermilk with spices. Here's how they help. Updated on: May 27
1 days ago
San Francisco-bound Air India flight, airborne for over 8 hours, returns to Delhi after technical snagAir India further added that the flight landed safely in Delhi and will undergo a technical inspection. Updated on: May 27, 2026 2:28 PM IST By HT News Desk Share via Copy link An Air India flight
1 days ago
The authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday barred Eid prayers at the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar for the eighth consecutive year and placed Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who traditionally leads the prayers, under house detention, he alleged. Farooq said on social media that Muslims in Kashmir had again
1 days ago
Itel has announced that its 4G feature phone users are now eligible for Reliance Jio’s Rs 123 monthly recharge plan, expanding affordable connectivity options for millions of consumers across India. The Rs 123 plan offers unlimited calls to any network and 0.5GB of data per day for 28 days
1 days ago
Telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) has rolled out new flexible international roaming packs for its postpaid customers, designed to provide greater convenience, choice, and value for international travellers. The new offerings include 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day packs
1 days ago
Amazon invested over £15 billion ($20 billion) in Britain in 2025, keeping the on track to deliver its planned £40 billion investment in the three years to the end of 2027, it said on Wednesday.Investments in 2025 included the launch of new operational sites
1 days ago
First Hydrogen Train: The Railway Ministry has approved to start operations of the country’s first hydrogen-powered 10-coach DEMU train at a maximum speed of 75 kmph between Jind and Sonipat under the Northern Railway zone, according to a PTI report dated May 26
1 days ago
, who left in March from its India used-car CEO role, has joined company as cofounder.Pune-headquartered EMotorad, founded in 2020, is backed by the likes of Panthera Growth Partners, Green Frontier Capital and Binny Bansal's xto10x."What EMotorad has built is genuinely exciting
1 days ago
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham termed "problematic" the role of Pakistan as a mediator in the United States' war with Iran. Mr. Graham's remarks came as Pakistan's Defence Minister Khwaja Asif said he is not in favour of Islamabad joining the Abraham Accords
1 days ago
Ashneer Grover once shut down his pitch with ‘Tu baith jaa yar’. Now he’s headed to Y CombinatorAn entrepreneur has shared his journey from being dismissed by Ashneer Grover to getting into the world’s most prestigious startup accelerator, Y Combinator. Updated on: May 27
1 days ago
100 gharial hatchlings at Chambal sanctuary boost conservation efforts100 gharial hatchlings at Chambal sanctuary boost conservation efforts Published on: May 27, 2026 2:34 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link Jaipur, Around 100 gharial hatchlings have emerged from four nests in the Palighat area of the
1 days ago
On the morning of December 17, 1967, Australian Prime Minister Harold Holt travelled to Cheviot Beach near Melbourne with a group of friends for what was supposed to be a relaxed day by the ocean. Within hours, the country’s leader had disappeared into the sea and would never be seen again
1 days ago
As temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes just as important as staying cool. The good news is that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to enjoy refreshing summer beverages. From protein-rich sattu sharbat to cooling chaas and tangy jaljeera
1 days ago
Cardiologist explains why ‘normal’ stress test does not mean arteries are clean, shares 5 symptoms to look out forA stress test does not give the total picture of the cardiac blood vessels. As such, the risk of heart attack remains, shares Dr Yaranov. Updated on: May 27
1 days ago
Organisational intelligence, the new growth pivot for enterprises, is emerging as a key differentiator between growth and stagnation of organisations. The key to being on the greener side of this phenomenon is the ability to learn faster and knowing how to put that knowledge into execution
1 days ago
Fans of Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh are reacting with shock after a major film workers' union asked its members not to work with him over his alleged abrupt exit from the upcoming movie Don 3. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE)
1 days ago
Nuno Espirito Santo will stay on as West Ham manager to lead their fight to get back to the Premier League at the first attempt. The Portuguese met with the club's senior management on Monday in the wake of their relegation from the top flight
1 days ago
