FEAR OF CANCER

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 189, 12 August 1931, Page 6

FEAR OF CANCER

WIDESPREAD SUPERSTITION it is one of the peculiarities uf cancer that most peop'e regard the disease as 0 thing apart from the natural misfortunes whivh afflict humanity. As one writer says: “Too many tend to regard the very existence of this dieeaw as outside the category of ordinary human misfortunates, and view it with feelings that partake of superstiffen. Such scientific knowledge as we possess with regard to it should correct such views, which are, after all, distorted. Studies of cancer prove to be studies of the working of nature.

though in circumstances which seem to display nature as cruel. All scientific progress is showing, however, that man can control nature and bend her to his will.” To assist scientific progress in the war on cancer, the British Empire Cancer Campaign (of which the King is patron) is making a world-wide appeal for funds. Another purpose of the campaign is the enlightenment of the public as to the disease, so as to dispel the fear and superstition which are now so prevalent. One of the chief weapons at present is education — spreading the knowledge that cancer in its early stages can often be destroyed by radium and X-rays, or re moved by surgery. Early attention, however, is the prime essential.