Myths are pieces of fantasy. As soon as we find out something we've heard is a myth, we toss it out of our memory. The problem is in finding out what is a myth and what isn't.
Some medical myths have been around for hundreds of years. Others are fairly new. Some are dangerous. All of them live on.
Always base your medical beliefs on scientific knowledge and research rather than
folklore.
Some myths can cause serious problems. One myth, for example, is that the medical establishment (doctors, hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical houses) is hiding a cure for cancer so they can make more money taking care of patients who are suffering from cancer. There is no semblance of truth to this statement, but it can lead to attitudes of suspicion and distrust that prevent people from obtaining appropriate medical care.
Another dangerous myth is the one that all bacteria must be destroyed for optimal health. Not only are the majority of bacteria helpful, but wholesale destruction of specific bacteria can lead to new strains that are resistant to the anti-bacteria cleanser.
The easiest defense against medical myths is to raise your level of suspicion and ask, “Where is the research report? What evidence is there? Why should I believe this?”
If you can’t put the pieces together concerning a piece of news you’ve picked up about a cure or a health problem you’re likely to encounter, ask your doctor the next time you’re in the office.
Don’t follow myths. Too often they lead to closed minds and medical problems.
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