Myths Vs Facts About Lifestyle And Leukemia

Last Updated:September 05, 2025, 15:18 IST

Unlike cancers linked to lifestyle, like lung or liver cancer, leukemia often arises from complex genetic and biological factors

Let’s debunk some myths surrounding leukemia

When it comes to leukemia, a blood cancer that affects bone marrow and blood-forming cells, misconceptions are common. Unlike cancers linked to lifestyle, like lung or liver cancer, leukemia often arises from complex genetic and biological factors. Dr Raman Narang, Consultant Medical Oncology, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi helps us to separate myths from facts to create a clearer understanding.

Myth 1: Leukemia is caused by poor lifestyle choices

Fact: Lifestyle alone does not cause leukemia. Smoking and long-term exposure to harmful chemicals like benzene may increase the risk, but most cases happen without obvious lifestyle triggers. Genetic mutations in blood-forming cells are the main cause.

Myth 2: Eating junk food or sugar causes leukemia

Fact: No food directly causes leukemia. However, a diet rich in nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains, can strengthen the immune system and aid recovery during treatment. Processed food or too much sugar may harm overall health, but they are not proven causes.

Myth 3: Only older adults get leukemia

Fact: Leukemia can occur at any age. Children are more likely to develop acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), while adults often face acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or chronic forms. These patterns result from biology, not lifestyle.

Myth 4: Exercise is unsafe for leukemia patients

Fact: Moderate, supervised activities like walking, yoga, or light resistance training can improve energy, mood, and immune strength. Exercise plans should consider blood counts and follow medical advice, but staying active is generally encouraged.

Myth 5: Stress or negative emotions can cause leukemia

Fact: Stress does not directly cause leukemia. However, long-term stress can weaken the immune system and affect overall well-being. Practices like meditation, counseling, or breathing exercises can help improve resilience during treatment.

Myth 6: Once diagnosed, lifestyle changes don’t matter

Fact: Healthy lifestyle choices are important for supporting treatment. Good nutrition, prevention of infections, getting enough rest, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can improve outcomes and quality of life.

Myth 7: Leukemia can be fully prevented through lifestyle

Fact: There is no guaranteed way to prevent leukemia. Reducing exposure to smoking, radiation, or harmful chemicals can lower risk, but genetics remain a major factor. A healthy lifestyle contributes to overall well-being but cannot completely prevent leukemia.

About the Author

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

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Author: News18