Children’s knowledge of cancer even sketchier than Daily Mail’s, reveals survey

A survey by Macmillan Cancer Support revealed that some children believe that cancer is contagious and can be caught by behaving badly, with experts warning that their knowledge of the disease is even worse than that of the Daily Mail.

The survey of 500 children aged 9 to 16 found that children who responded to the poll did not appear to know what it means to have cancer, which the Daily Mail has warned could significantly increase their risk of getting cancer.

Following the findings, the Daily Mail have already begun to uncover links between surveys and malignant tumours.

“There is clear evidence that some people who have taken part in surveys have since been diagnosed with cancer,” revealed a spokesperson for the tabloid newspaper.

“The list of things that can cause cancer is extensive.”

“Being a man or being a woman can be factors, so it’s important that people should avoid being either of these things where possible.”

Cancer survey

More than half of the children surveyed said the word ‘cancer’ makes them feel frightened, which the Daily Mail spokesperson revealed is both good and bad news.

“Fear is good because it sells newspapers, but it can also lead to stress, which could give you cancer.”

“You could maybe try a relaxing bubble bath to lessen the risks, but for Christ’s sake don’t use a bubble bath that contains cancer causing chemicals.”

Macmillan Cancer Support has produced an information pack called Talking About Cancer to allow teachers to plan lessons around the subject and give children a clearer understanding of the disease.

“Oh dear, big mistake,” added the Daily Mail spokesperson.

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