Pollution can cause cancer, but it is more likely to do so in underdeveloped countries, such as China, because the coal emissions are less clean than those in the U.S.

2. Microwaving food in a plastic container

Microwaving food in a plastic container is not believed to be a source of cancer, but the chemicals from the plastic could get into food and make it unsafe.

3. Standing too close to a microwave

Standing too close to a microwave isn’t hazardous, as it doesn’t exceed 100 degrees Celsius. That amount of heat is about the equivalent of boiling water and won’t cause any type of radiation or heat damage to those standing nearby.

4. Using artificial sweeteners

As artificial sweeteners are so widely used by Americans, it would be immediately obvious if they caused cancer. There is no such data from human or animal testing that suggests the quasi-sugar causes cancer.

5. Having an X-ray taken

X-rays are unlikely to cause cancer, as most people have very limited exposure to them — usually just at the doctor’s or dentist’s office a few times a year. Finding out the source of another medical problem normally trumps the minimal amount of radiation caused by an X-ray.

6. Using electronics

There is no evidence that electronics are a source of cancer. Researchers haven’t witnessed any significant rise in cancer as a result of cell phone usage. The same goes for other electronic devices, such as head phones, which are often deemed as cancer-causing when frequently used.

7. Using deodorant

Fingers falsely point at deodorant for leading to breast cancer, claiming the aluminum hydroxide or metals it contains alter cells. It hasn’t been proven to actually do so in humans.

Source: J. Justin McCormick, professor of osteopathic medical research and advanced study programs