Claim: Birth Control Causes Cancer

Question

If you use birth control, you might be wondering whether it affects your chances of getting cancer, IUDs, birth control pills, birth control shots, and others raise or lower your risk.

Comments

As soon as I saw this claim I immediately clicked on it and had to know if it was true, I was pleasantly relieved to find out that this was not fully true and that some birth controls can actually lower your risk of cancer.

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I think that you might want to you more than one source when researching something like this. Webmd is useful and something to use as a secondary source but using it as your only source makes the argument a little bit weak and could use more. I also think using quotes or specific data would help.

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The claim that "birth control causes cancer" is misleading and fearmongering, as it suggests that all forms of birth control increase cancer risk, which isn’t true. Different methods, like the pill, IUDs, and shots, can have varying effects, and some may even reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer. It’s always important to consider individual health factors though, and consult with a healthcare provider to make informed decisions about birth control so it affects you positively.

Answer 1

This claim is exaggerated and misleading. The article linked fully explains where this claim may have come from. The article states that birth control can both raise and lower your risk of certain cancers. This claim is exaggerated because they do not show the other side of the articles, where contraceptives can lower your risk of certain cancers.

The article goes on to decipher between the different forms of birth control, although they don't include all contraceptive options, like the Nexaplon implant or the Plan B pill. 

The National Cancer Institute did a study of the relationship between birth control/contraceptives and cancer. Their findings back up the article, saying that while birth control does increase your risk for certain cancers (breast and cervical) it can also reduce the risk of other types of cancer (endometrial, ovarian, colorectal). The Cancer Research Center of the UK did a similar study and came to similar conclusions.

Comments

I thought this answer was very strong and super helpful! You go into strong detail as to how the article discusses how birth control can actually do the exact opposite then what the claim is stating and you point out they don’t discuss all form so birth control.

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I like the three different studies you linked to your fact check so we can get clear information on your claim. You show how the original claim is misleading and back it up with solid evidence.

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Great Job fact checking! You did a very thorough job. I especially appreciate how you two outside trustable sources to back up your fact checking. There are some things you could implement into your fact checking to make it more solid. For one, maybe next time you could further investigate the original article- was it trustable? And who wrote it? Same goes for your outside sources. Though you did a great job of finding them, you could research who did the specific studies you talk about and why they are qualified.

Overall, great job!

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This is a really good factcheck because you first gave background on what exactly the article was claiming, and then gave two sources backing up your own claim. To be more specific you could give specifically how the results of the studies, if at all, differed. You say they are 'similar' but your fact check could improve by saying exactly how they differed and how they were the same.

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This was a great factcheck! Your sources are good for backing up your claim, and you provided information to help refute the claim. I agree that the claim is completely misleading.

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This fact-check is very effective because it starts by clarifying the article’s original claim, then reinforces your point with two supporting sources. To enhance it further, you could specify how the studies’ findings compare. Instead of simply noting they are “similar,” detailing the exact similarities and differences would add clarity and strengthen your analysis.

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Great job with this fact check! It's very important to note the difference between something having been associated with cancer and something overall causing it. In my own fact-checking, I used the same source as you. I wish the person making this claim would have referenced a more notable source.

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Great job! It is good noting the difference between something having an association with cancer and something having direct links to increasing it. You also go into detail about how birth control can affect different parts of your body other than cancer. The sources you used are reputable, and have a strong backing behind their name.

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I really enjoyed reading your response. It is important to note like you have, the difference between something causing cancer, and something increasing your chance of cancer. I would suggest linking your sources, but overall I thought you did a great job clarifying an exaggerated claim.

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I agree that this a good response and the detail helped me better understand, if this statement is true or not. How it really affects the body when having the birth control. I liked everything you used to back up the information.

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I think you made a great point in your response. It's so important to outline the difference between something causing cancer and something associated with cancer. It's easy to get them mixed up but this was a great response to outline the difference.

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This was a strong rebuttal but lacked direct quotes. You elaborated about websites that disproved the original statement but a quote would've made the whole thing stronger. There was mentions of medical studies that have been studying the claim which does mean there is more evidence being studied. The original claim is misleading but you explained why it was and where the confusion comes from. But your explanation was misleading too because you said it lowers the risk for some cancers but increases it for others. So the claim was wrong but your explanation is also misleading.

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This was a very strong rebuttal to this claim, and, while I do agree that it is wildly exaggerated, there is a lack of direct quotes in this factcheck. Though you made allusions and elaborated upon websites disproving the statement that birth control causes cancer, there is not a solid piece of evidence proving why the original statement made is misleading. In your factcheck, you mentioned that birth control lowers risk for some cancers, but raises it for others. I feel that both the original claim and your factcheck are misleading.

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Your fact check is clear and well-supported. You effectively point out that the claim is exaggerated by not presenting the full picture. Highlighting the National Cancer Institute and Cancer Research Center of the UK's studies adds credibility to your argument. It might also be useful to mention why including all contraceptive options, like the Nexplanon implant or Plan B pill, would provide a more comprehensive view. Nice job!

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You raised an excellent point in your comment, in my opinion. It's critical to distinguish between factors that cause cancer and those that are linked to it. Although it's easy to confuse them, you did an exceptional job of outlining the differences.

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You did a good job using relevant and credible sources to support your fact-check, especially using a scientific research institute like the National Cancer Institute to speak on a topic related to cancer. Additionally, the nuance you provided into birth control's differing possible effects and correlations with different types of cancer is very important, as cancer is not a monolith and exists in many different forms. I think what could have made your fact check even stronger is researching and outlining the origins of the article to study its credibility, and explaining the results of the other study by the Cancer Research Center of the UK that you briefly mentioned.

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You did a great job explaining the misleading nature of the claim and pointing out how the article left out important details. By mentioning that birth control can both raise and lower cancer risks, you showed that the issue is more complex than the claim suggests. You also effectively used credible sources to support your argument.

Answer 2

This claim is viewed as misleading and exaggerated. With such a short and simple statement, birth control does have its side effects https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/3977-birth-control-the-pill but the extent of it is not as intense and severe.

Taking a closer look at the article, it states both the concerns but also the positive things that birth controls can contribute to. Being examined by Traci C. Johnson, https://www.webmd.com/bio/traci-c-johnson she is a certified doctor and this article shows that contraceptives at times can lower the risk of cancer.

One specific thing though is that whilst the article does go into different birth controls. it doesn't include the main ones like Plan B pill. Plos Medicine, https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1004188 and The National Cancer Institute, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet#:~:text=Overall%2C%20however%2C%20these%20studies%20have,reduced%20(1%E2%80%933) show similar studies that birth control does play an effect in increasing the risk cancer like breast but it also reduces other types of cancer like ovarian.

It is important to consider these factors and how cancer also comes in all forms along with the types of birth controls. More research needs to be done and in this case, the claim is very generic that can be misleading to viewers that don't understand the depth cancer and birth control.

Comments

This is a very good fact check. you are to the point and even provide links and reasoning to back up the statement. However when including articles, make sure you give a brief explanation as to what it says rather than just attaching the link. this can make it easier for the reader to understand and also prove your argument even more.

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I completely agree with your factcheck. The claim was misleading. I like how you provided links and evidence to backup your claim.

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I agree with this fact check because it begins by explaining the article’s original claim and then supports your argument with two sources. To make it even more specific, you could detail exactly how the studies’ results compared. While you mention they are “similar,” your fact-check could be enhanced by clarifying exactly where they align and where they diverge.

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This is a good fact check, but I would quote your sources as well as cite them.

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This was a very well written and thought out replay. I liked that for each section you had a link and a different article, so we are able to see where you are getting this information. I also like the fact that you didn't completely debunk this instead just suggested that more facts and research are needed.

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I agree with your fact-check. I applaud the way you structured each point and explained your evidence. I do wish you explained the contents of the articles you used but overall great job!

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Wow!! This fact-check is super impressive. You have a super clear structure to it that makes it very easy to understand all your points of reasoning. You also reference three different articles to back up your explanation. All of these articles are from medical journals or clinics, the best possible source for this type of claim. On top of that, taking the time to really analyze the source cited in the claim and who is being quoted throughout it. I am really amazed, great job!

Answer 3

This claim is exaggerated and misleading. The effects of birth control vary significantly depending on the type of birth control used. While some methods, like birth control pills, may increase the risk of breast and cervical cancers, they also decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers. This complexity means that the overall impact on cancer risk is not straightforward. Each method of birth control should be considered individually for causing cancer to understand all the risks and benefits.

Comments

I agree with your fact check on how the intital claim was extremely misleading and doesn't cite the article at all. I would reccomend for a fact check to add an additional source to back up your claim.

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I agree that the initial claim is misleading. I think it would be beneficial to add where you got the faces about the risks associated with each individual type of birth control, as it would prove that what your'e saying is correct.

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I agree with your fat check because the original claim was very misleading and inaccurate. I think it would be important for you to share where you got your information from to ensure it's true.

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Your points about the cancer risks related to different birth control methods stand out greatly and are received well. It is important to recognize that some methods can increase the risk of certain cancers while lowering the risk for others. Have you thought to look at studies from the American Cancer Society or the National Institutes of Health? These sources have extensive research on how different birth control types affect cancer risks, which could add to your argument.

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You did a great job saying this claim was exaggerated and misleading. However, I wish you would have referenced a source. One of the best ways to ensure you're being a notable fact checker is by referencing other works to help back up your claim. Otherwise, good job!

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I appreciated how you included both the different types of cancer and the different types of birth control, and how this complicates the claim being researched. Since you didn't cite any sources, I think it would be valuable to focus on finding and citing credible sources based on scientific research, such as the National Library of Medicine or a cancer research facility study as these directly relate to the topic. Without sources, it's difficult to verify this information, and citing information builds credibility and media literacy!

Answer 4

This claim is exaggerated and misleading, the first paragraphs show that birth control can lead to increased risk of cancer but doesn't entirely cause it. There are associated risks of getting cancer from birth control just like many other products. A study cited in this article by the University of Colorado shows that use of IUDs instead of other methods of birth control had cancer rates decline by 32%. This study is a work in progresss and it doesn't completely rule that birth control alone causes cancer.

Source: https://www.uchealth.org/today/iud-use-cut-rates-of-deadly-ovarian-cancer-around-the-world-new-study-finds/

Comments

I completely agree with this fact check. It definitely seems like they tried to pull the reader in with shock rather than info then proceeded to use a very neutral empty thesis to encourage to read more.

Answer 5

The claim is a huge exaggeration, with dangerous consequences. I researched if birth control causes cancer and went to the website listed, and found out more about the risks that can happen with different types of birth control. The article notes that using any birth control can "slightly increase" your risk of cancer, which is very different than causing cancer. This difference of language is very important because saying birth control causes cancer would deter women from getting the health care they need, which in turn can lead to them getting in very difficult positions. Furthermore, the article later gives statistics that using birth control can significantly drop your risk of endometrial, colon, and ovarian cancer. These statistics directly disprove the claim, even though they came from the same original source this claim stems from. The misinformation stated in the claim adds fuel to the fire in the argument of women’s reproductive health, however the source gives good insight to the different forms of birth control possible, and emphasizes the importance of making an educated choice for what’s right for you.

Comments

Your point on the connotation of words used within claims is very important and it is good that you specified the difference in your answer. I appreciate your references to the other claims the article makes and their link to greater social issues regarding reproductive health. I think this could be stronger by referencing other sources like the National Cancer Institute (https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet) which has more credibility than web.md.

Answer 6

This claim is too far exaggerated to make a real and true claim. The website linked shows both sides of the argument, both decreasing and increasing risks of cancer. An article from the National Cancer Institute (https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet#:~:text=Overall%2C%20however%2C%20these%20studies%20have,reduced%20(1%E2%80%933) states that birth control can increase risk of some cancers, but also decrease risk of other types of cancers. Along with this, the claim above states that birth control causes cancer, while the truth is that it can possibly increase the risk of cancer. Overall, the claim above is completely misleading, and is not a true claim.

Answer 7

This claim may come across as somewhat misleading and overstated. While birth control does carry certain side effects, as noted in the Cleveland Clinic article (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/3977-birth-control-the-pill), the severity of these effects is generally not as extreme. The article provides a balanced view, discussing both the risks and the potential benefits of contraceptives.

Dr. Traci C. Johnson, a certified physician, reviews this topic in a WebMD article (https://www.webmd.com/bio/traci-c-johnson), explaining that birth control can sometimes even lower cancer risk. Although the article addresses different types of contraceptives, it does not include common options like the Plan B pill. Research published in PLOS Medicine (https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1004188) and information from the National Cancer Institute (https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet#:~:text=Overall%2C%20however%2C%20these%20studies%20have,reduced%20(1%E2%80%933)) indicate that while birth control may raise the risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer, it also has protective effects against others, like ovarian cancer.

Taking these factors into account, as well as the variety of cancer types and birth control methods, emphasizes the need for more extensive research. The initial claim is broad and could mislead individuals who might not fully understand the complexities surrounding cancer risk and birth control use.

Answer 8

The claim "Birth Control Causes Cancer" is misleading and is an exaggeration. The article cited explains that being on certain types of birth control can raise someone's risk of certain cancers. The article also details four types of birth control methods. However, many methods of birth control aren't included in this article, such as arm implants like Nexplanon or over-the-counter emergency contraception like Plan B. 

The American Cancer Society did a study on the link between contraceptives and the possibility of raised risk for specific types of cancer, such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. However, contraceptives also lower the risk of endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer. Overall, there are risks when it comes to different methods of birth control and contraceptives, but there are also benefits for each individual to consider when making decisions regarding contraceptives. 

Source: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/birth-control-cancer-which-methods-raise-lower-risk.html 

Answer 9

The relationship between birth control and cancer is complex. Although the NCI National Cancer Institute says that some forms may slightly increase the risk of specific cancers, It also says that birth control can reduce the risk of others. It's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider to make informed decisions. Regular check-ups and screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention of cancer. The American Cancer Society has done extensive research using millions of patient files and has agreed with the finding of the NCI. However, It notes a few essential types of Cancer.

Breast Cancer: Some studies may suggest that a slightly increased risk of breast cancer, especially with long-term use can occur. However, this risk is generally small and often decreases after stopping use. 

Cervical Cancer: A slight increase in risk has been observed, but regular cervical cancer screenings can effectively detect and treat precancerous cells.

Endometrial Cancer: Hormonal birth control, particularly combined pill, can significantly reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

It is important to note that specific nonhormonal birth control have adverse effects, such as Copper IUDs, which May slightly increase the risk of uterine cancer.

Overall, this statement is misleading.

Sources

https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/birth-control-cancer-which-methods-raise-lower-risk.html

Answer 10

The article "Birth Control and Cancer Risk: What You Should Know" offers helpful information, but by leaving out important context, it could mislead readers. For example, it may exaggerate concerns when it claims that oral contraceptives raise the risk of breast and cervical cancer without comparing baseline risks (www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet). Similar ambiguity surrounds the discussion of IUDs, which mention conflicting research on breast cancer without drawing firm conclusions (medicalxpress.com/news/2024-10-iuds-breast-cancer-evidence.html, www.health.com/hormonal-iud-raise-breast-cancer-risk-8731608). Without more comprehensive evidence, highlighting a single study about the birth control shot doubling the risk of breast cancer could unnecessarily increase anxiety (www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-advisory/articles/2018/01/hormonal-contraception-and-risk-of-breast-cancer). Making informed health decisions requires consulting medical experts and up-to-date research.

Comments

This rebuttal to the claim starts strong, calling the article exaggerated, which it is. But then the fact check loses me, by its usage of urls not being integrated into the fact check. howver, it is great that they used multiple cites to fact check the claim, including one with data research, which would have made a great point if included in the response.