A diagnosis of cancer can be frightening for both patients and their loved ones. But according to experts, many of the fears surrounding the disease are caused by misconceptions about the condition and its treatment. By learning the facts, you can ease your fears, cope with your diagnosis, and manage the disease more effectively. Read on as we dispel the most common cancer myths.

Myth #1: If you're getting cancer treatment, you won't be able to live a normal life.
Fact: According to experts, many people undergoing cancer treatment are treated on an outpatient basis and are able to spend time with family and friends, do many of their usual activities, and even work part- or full-time. Each case is unique, though, so it's important to talk to your doctor about your individual treatment plan and its side effects.

Myth #2: Cancer is always painful.
Fact: Although some cancers do cause pain in their advanced stages, there are many forms of the disease that never cause pain, and most types cause no pain in their initial stages. If a patient does experience pain, the degree may depend on the extent of the disease and the patient's individual tolerance, reports the National Cancer Institute. In addition, numerous breakthroughs have been made over the past decade to help patients manage such pain.

Myth #3: The type of treatment you'll receive depends solely on the type of cancer you have.
Fact: Cancer treatments aren't "one size fits all." Although the type of cancer you have plays a role, there are other considerations, including the stage it's at, your medical history, your general health, and your preferences. This is why it's important to talk to your doctor, so he or she can tailor a treatment plan for you.

Myth #4: Cancer treatment always causes hair loss.
Fact: Although some cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, may cause hair loss, not everyone who undergoes these treatments loses their hair. In addition, hair loss varies; while some people experience dramatic hair loss, others only have partial loss or mild thinning.

Myth #5: Cancer is usually fatal.
Fact: Although survival rates vary greatly depending on the type of cancer and its stage, more cancer patients are beating the disease than ever before. What's more, cancer patients live longer in the United States than anywhere else on the globe, according to a 2007 survey published in Lancet Oncology. The study found that American women have a 63 percent chance of living at least five years after a cancer diagnosis, while American men have a five-year survival rate of 66 percent.