Top five claims about cancer we fact-checked in 2025

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Cancer remains one of the world’s most feared diseases, and because of that, misinformation around it spreads rapidly across social media platforms. From supposed “natural cures” to unfounded warnings about everyday products, false health claims related to cancer continue to dominate digital spaces despite efforts by fact-checkers to address this.

As part of DUBAWA’s commitment to promote accurate health information, we investigated several of these viral claims. Below are some of the cancer-related claims fact-checked this year.

1. Fluoride causes cancer

In April 2025, a viral sermon by Chris Oyakhilome, a Nigerian pastor, claimed that fluoride, commonly found in toothpaste, water, soil, and food, was a leading cause of cancer.

However, findings showed that there was no credible scientific evidence linking regulated fluoride use to any form of cancer. Research has indicated that fluoride, at approved levels, is safe and helps prevent tooth decay. 

Further findings showed that cancer research institutions did not list fluoride as a carcinogen.

Experts told DUBAWA that there was no connection between fluoride and cancer. They also noted that discouraging people from using fluoridated products could harm public dental health and fuel unnecessary fear. Read more here.

2. Pineapple in hot water cures cancer 

Another cancer-related claim DUBAWA investigated was a WhatsApp message claiming that drinking hot water mixed with pineapple slices, often described as “pineapple water,” could kill cancer cells and cure cancer.

But DUBAWA’s showed there was no solid scientific evidence to support the claim. Findings revealed that while pineapple contains enzymes and compounds like bromelain and antioxidants, which have shown some effects on cancer cells in laboratory or animal studies, those results did not translate into proven treatments for human cancers.

Health professionals also warned that relying on such claims was dangerous because it might lead cancer patients to ignore or delay legitimate medical treatment, potentially putting their health at serious risk. Read more here.

3. Bee venom eliminated breast cancer cells in 60 minutes 

Another cancer-related claim we investigated was a post shared by a Facebook user regarding bee venom. The user claimed that Bee venom, sometimes through stings or other Bee venom preparations, could kill breast cancer cells and effectively cure breast cancer.

Findings revealed that while some research has shown that bees’ venom can destroy specific breast cancer cells in laboratory settings or animal studies, the results have not been validated in human patients. 

The studies remain preliminary and experimental, and no clinical evidence currently supports the use of bee venom as a safe or effective treatment for cancer.

Experts warned that relying on bee venom as a cancer treatment was risky. They added that such gives false hope, delays proven medical care, and even endangers people’s health. Read more here.

4. Pap smear, mammogram, and biopsy can damage the cervix or cause cancer

An Instagram user posted a video warning against standard cancer-screening procedures, suggesting that tests like pap smears, mammograms, or cervical biopsies could damage the cervix or even trigger cancer rather than detect it.

However, evidence from medical research and experts showed that these procedures are safe and essential for early detection. Findings showed that a pap smear does not damage the cervix. Instead, it gently collects a small number of cells for examination. Similarly, biopsies and mammograms have not been shown to cause cancer or induce harmful changes in healthy tissue.

These procedures remain among the most effective tools for catching precancerous changes or early-stage cancer when it is most treatable. Read more here.

5. Garlic, ginger, and dandelion reduce cancer risk by 90%

An X user claimed that taking garlic, ginger, or dandelion daily could help eliminate chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of cancer by nearly 90 per cent. The post, which garnered significant attention with thousands of views and reposts, suggested that these plants could play a crucial role in preventing cancer.

Studies showed that garlic, ginger, and dandelion contain anti-inflammatory properties and may help slow the growth of cancer cells. However, experts noted that this does not translate into a 90 per cent reduction in cancer risk. 

Medical professionals said cancer is complex and cannot be prevented or treated with simple home remedies without strong scientific evidence. Read more here.