Over half of UK adults hold outdated views about cancer, putting people at risk, charity warns

• More than half of people in the UK (58%) hold ‘outdated’ views about cancer, with this rising to nearly three quarters (71%) of young adults
• In some communities the figure rises to almost 4 in 5 people, with 77% of people from ethnically diverse backgrounds holding common misconceptions about the disease
• Macmillan Cancer Support is warning these widespread views could risk people missing out on vital support and leave patients more vulnerable to health misinformation, potentially harming their health and wellbeing
• Broadcaster Chris Stark is joining forces with the charity as it launches a new campaign fronted by people living with cancer from across the UK to change the perception of what it means to be living with the disease today.

Over half of the UK holds ‘outdated’ views about cancer that could risk patients missing out on vital support and being more vulnerable to health misinformation, a leading charity is warning today.

New data from Macmillan Cancer Support shows 58% of UK adults — an estimated 31 million people across the UK — believe one or more common misconceptions about the disease[i], which almost one in two people will get in their lifetime[ii].

The 114-year-old charity, which once successfully campaigned to change the dictionary definition of cancer for failing to reflect progresses in treating and understanding the disease[iii], is warning misconceptions and misinformation can negatively shape people’s thoughts of cancer and could lead to those in need missing out on accessing vital support.

The new data — which has come from one of the charity’s biggest ever polls of the UK public — also highlights ‘alarming’ differences between generations. An estimated 4 million young adults across the UK hold one or more outdated views about cancer (71%)[iv], with 18–24-year-olds also more likely than average to trust internet search results, social media or WhatsApp for information about health (22% compared to 15% of all UK adults)[v].

Common misconceptions about cancer include:

• That hair loss is the most common side-effect of treatment (42% of all UK adults // 55% of 18–24-year-olds) — previous research by Macmillan shows fewer than one in four people with cancer (22%) experience hair loss as a result of their cancer or its treatment, with other impacts such as severe fatigue and scarring being more common[vi]
• That cancer is still a death sentence for most people (31% of all UK adults // 41% of 18–24-year-olds) — advancements in cancer detection and treatment have significantly improved survival rates for many types of cancer
• That you can’t live a good life with cancer (9% of all UK adults // 11% of 18–24-year-olds) — Macmillan works with and sees many people who continue to lead active, meaningful lives during and after cancer treatment.
• That average survival following a cancer diagnosis is less than a year (4% all UK adults // 5% of 18–24-year-olds) — while there is still much room for improvement, other data shows average survival rates for cancer patients in the UK have increased in recent decades

Additional misconceptions include the idea that cancer only really happens in old age (3% of all UK adults // 11% of 18–24-year-olds), and that cancer is something to be ashamed of (3% of all UK adults // 6% of 18–24-year-olds).

The new research also shows misconceptions can be even higher within some communities, with almost four in five (77%) people from ethnically diverse backgrounds holding one or more common misconceptions about the disease[vii].

In addition, Black (23%) and South Asian (20%) UK adults are twice as likely to believe cancer can be triggered by a negative mindset, compared to 10% of all UK adults. They are also more likely to believe some types of cancer are contagious — with around one in 10 Black and South Asian adults believing this (10% and 9%), compared to 4% of all UK adults[viii].

Macmillan is working with a wide range of community groups across the UK to understand how these perceptions could be impacting people’s access to support, with the data showing that people from some ethnically diverse backgrounds are also less likely than average to trust healthcare professionals as a source of information (62% of South Asian adults and 69% of adults with mixed or multiple ethnicities, compared to 77% of all UK adults), and are also less likely to trust cancer support organisations or charities (58% of South Asian adults, 66% of adults with mixed or multiple ethnicities and 68% of Black adults, compared to 76% of UK adults)[ix].

As part of its work to address these misconceptions, the charity is today launching its new campaign, Whoever You Are, Whatever it Takes — backed by broadcaster Chris Stark. The campaign is being fronted by 10 people with cancer from across the UK who have joined forces to shine a light on what it really means to be living with a cancer diagnosis in the UK today and to encourage more people to access accurate information and support.

Broadcaster Chris Stark, 38, revealed he had been diagnosed with testicular cancer, in March 2025. Now, he’s using his experience to urge other men to get themselves checked, tackling cancer misconceptions, as testicular cancer can be more prevalent in younger populations.

“I decided to open up about my experience because there’s still a stigma attached, especially around testicular cancer, as it can be a difficult subject to talk about. It’s actually very common among men aged 18–49, something that genuinely surprised me when I heard that, but it’s treatable if caught early.

“It’s crucial to have these conversations to reduce the stigma. If being open about my own experience helps make it easier for other men to talk about theirs, encourages someone to check themselves and potentially saves a life, then I’m more than willing to share my story.”

Richard Simcock, Chief Medical Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support, is urging people to seek out accurate information and support from trusted sources. He said:

“It’s worrying to see millions of people hold on to outdated views about cancer, and alarming to see this issue is even higher for young adults and people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. These misconceptions could prevent people from reaching out and getting the right support for them which could have a devastating impact on their health and wellbeing. We want people to use reliable, trusted and accurate sources of support like those provided by Macmillan. Quite often people will say ‘I know I shouldn’t, but I googled’, which can be a negative experience leaving people frightened and confused. This is extremely concerning when these sources aren’t reliable, trusted and accurate.

“Every day we hear from people whose lives have been turned upside down by cancer and for some the impact is even greater simply because of who they are or where they live. It’s vital everybody with cancer gets the right care for them and that’s why we’re here. Whatever the question or need, big or small, Macmillan can provide reassurance, information, and support.”

Roger Snipes, a health enthusiast from London was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2024. The 46-year-old wants to share his experiences to tackle common misconceptions. He said:

“People think only unhealthy people get cancer — that’s simply not true. No matter who you are it’s so important to be aware of signs and symptoms and seek help when needed. I ignored pains for months and didn’t feel a strong sense of urgency to have a check-up at the GP, thinking it would go away on its own as I was healthy and I didn’t think it would be anything serious. I guess I had my own misconceptions around cancer and who it affects.

“There’s this expectation that men need to be strong in the face of adversity. I think we should support each other a little more. It’s said men are less likely to seek help when needed and are less likely to visit the doctor if they think something is wrong, and that needs to change.”

Macmillan is warning that with more people living with cancer than ever before — almost 3.5 million people in the UK[x] — it’s never been more important for people to be aware of the accurate and trusted support available.

For information, support or just someone to talk to, call Macmillan’s free, confidential Support line 7-days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk/whateveryouneed.

ENDS

Additional story tellers:

Nellie Robert-Gbadebo, 27, from London, was diagnosed with breast cancer in her mid-20s (2023), just three months after giving birth to her third child. The emotional toll led her to withdraw from friends and family. She says:

“The emotional challenges were far greater than the physical challenges of treatment for me. As a new mother, I felt immense guilt. I struggled to bond with my newborn, and the sense of being an absent parent weighed heavily on me.

“People assume it’s easy to talk to friends and family, but I withdrew to avoid being a burden. It was coming out and sharing my story with my online community is where I found solace and support. I felt seen, heard and understood in ways I hadn’t before. I then connected with Macmillan who were able to point me in the right direction for the type of support that I needed. I know some people avoid reaching out to health professionals or charities for support, but it really was a lifeline for me during some of my darkest moments. Today, it feels like I’ve been given a second shot at life. It’s an honour to know Macmillan will continue to be by my side whilst I navigate life post cancer.”

LJ Madalura, 27, from South Croydon, who was diagnosed with leukemia at 19, reflects on the ‘stigma towards cancer’ within certain communities and says:

“There’s still a stigma towards cancer. Some people believe it’s something you can catch, and they’ll avoid you. A lot of older generations from my Filipino culture neglect the idea of cancer and often believe you must have done something wrong to get it. There’s so much confusion and silence around it, it’s like they have no idea what to do and can’t comprehend the circumstances.

“In certain communities people can deny cancer exists, as they don’t know how to deal with it. These are big topics, and it’s almost like you don’t want to speak issues into existence. It can be daunting. But even if others don’t understand, your experience is real, and you deserve support and care every step of the way.

The reality behind common misconceptions about cancer:

Hair loss is the most common side-effect of treatment

Hair loss is a potential side effect of certain cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy. However, it’s not universal and depends on the specific drugs used. Other treatments, like radiotherapy, may cause hair loss only in the targeted area. Moreover, not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss, and some patients may experience minimal or no hair loss at all. Previous research by Macmillan shows fewer than one in four people with cancer (22%) experience hair loss as a result of their cancer or its treatment[xi].

Common side effects vary widely depending on the type of cancer and treatment. Macmillan’s previous research shows people with cancer are actually more likely to experience severe fatigue (33%), scarring (28%), and bowel or bladder isues (24%) than hair loss[xii].

That cancer is still a death sentence for most people

While cancer remains the most common cause of death in the UK[xiii], advancements in cancer detection and treatment have significantly improved survival rates (see below). Many cancers are now treatable, and patients can live long, fulfilling lives post-diagnosis. Early detection and personalised treatment plans have contributed to these improved outcomes.

The average survival following a cancer diagnosis is less than a year

This is an outdated statistic. There is still much need for improvement, particularly for some cancer types and compared with other countries, however average survival rates for cancer patients in the UK have increased significantly in recent decades. One study showed that in England and Wales in the 1970s, around half of people with cancer survived an average of one year, whereas by 2010 around half of patients survived an average of 10 years[xiv].

You can’t live a good life with cancer

Many individuals continue to lead active, meaningful lives during and after cancer treatment. Supportive care, rehabilitation, and coping strategies enable patients to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

Cancer only really happens in old age

While the risk of cancer increases with age, it can affect individuals of all ages, including children and young adults. Certain cancers are more prevalent in younger populations, such as testicular cancer[xv], and there is evidence to suggest rates of cancer are increasing faster among the under-50s than in older age groups across Western Europe as well as many other parts of the world[xvi].

Cancer is something to be ashamed of

Cancer is a medical condition, not a personal failing. Stigmatising the disease can hinder open discussions and support-seeking behaviour. Sharing experiences and seeking support are crucial for coping and recovery.

Macmillan’s Support

Macmillan is here to provide reliable, trusted information and support to meet people’s needs.

• Our cancer information — available in 16 languages and different formats.
• Macmillan’s Online Community — which supported more than quarter of a million people with cancer in 2024[xvii]
• Macmillan Support Line — free, confidential support via phone, chat & email.
• Our website — an extensive source of verified cancer information, signposts to support and opportunities to get involved.
• Macmillan Cancer Care Map — signposting to local information, support groups and how to get involved with Macmillan where you live.
• Macmillan Buddies — free service matching people with cancer with support from someone who understands what they are going through.

br /> [vii] As per ref 1

[viii] As per ref 1. Refers to agreeing with the following statements: ‘Cancer can be triggered by a negative mindset’, ‘Some types of cancer are contagious, e.g. you can catch it from someone else who has it’

[ix] As per ref 1 and 5. Relevant answer options were as follows: Healthcare professional, (e.g., doctor, nurse, pharmacist, etc), Information booklets in a hospital or GP surgery, Cancer support organization or charity (e.g., Macmillan Cancer Support, Cancer Research UK, etc)

[x] Macmillan Cancer Support. Cancer prevalence. Accessed April 2025

[xi] As per ref 6

[xii] As per ref 6

[xiii] Refers to cause of death from overall disease group, i.e. all types of cancer combined compared with e.g. all types of dementia combined, and all types of heart disease and stroke combined. Based on a combination of analysis from the following sources: 1) Office for National Statistics. Deaths registered in England and Wales, 2023. Relevant figures shown in table 7 of the 2023 dataset 2) National Records of Scotland. Vital Events Reference Tables 2023 — National Records of Scotland (NRS); Relevant figures shown in table 6.04 of the 2023 dataset 3) Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency. Registrar General Annual Report 2023 Cause of Death | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency; Relevant figures shown in table 6.1 of the 2023 dataset. Accessed April 2025

[xiv] ‘Average survival’ in this context refers to index of net survival. For patients diagnosed in 1971–72, the index of net survival was 50% at 1 year after diagnosis. For 2011–12, the same value of 50% was predicted at 10 years after diagnosis. Source: Quaresma M, Coleman MP, Rachet B. 40-year trends in an index of survival for all cancers combined and survival adjusted for age and sex for each cancer in England and Wales, 1971–2011: a population-based study. Lancet 2015; 385: 1206–1218. doi: 10.1016/S0140–6736(14)61396–9

[xv] NHS England National Disease Registration Service (NDRS). Cancer incidence and mortality. Both rates and number of diagnoses of testicular cancer are highest among men aged 25–44. Accessed April 2025

[xvi] Zhao J, Xu L, Sun J et al. Global trends in incidence, death, burden and risk factors of early-onset cancer from 1990 to 2019: BMJ Oncology 2023; 2: e000049. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjonc-2023-000049

[xvii] Macmillan Cancer Support internal data — estimated reach figure