Expressions like "fighting cancer" or "winning the battle" are common, but specialists and patients warn of their emotional consequences. The 'Cuidado con las Palabras' initiative, developed by GEPAC with support from BeOne Medicines, aims to raise awareness about the impact of the language used in communicating about oncological diseases.

The campaign emphasizes that words are not neutral and that the way cancer is discussed influences how patients experience the illness. According to Begoña Barragán, president of GEPAC, warlike language imposes an undue responsibility on the patient, suggesting everything depends on their attitude. "Cancer is a complex process, and what people need is not to be pressured to fight, but to be accompanied, understood, and respected," she states.

Scientific evidence links warlike metaphors with higher levels of fear and frustration. Conversely, expressions focused on support and the process help in better coping with the diagnosis. To this end, GEPAC has created a tool that detects posts using warlike language about cancer on social media and suggests more humane alternatives.

The initiative is complemented by a website offering a glossary of alternative expressions and materials developed by psycho-oncologists. Isabel López, a psycho-oncologist at GEPAC, highlights that language directly influences the emotional experience of the illness, and that empathetic communication improves psychological well-being.

The reflection on oncological language has also reached the Congress of Deputies and has had the support of figures like Queen Letizia. From BeOne Medicines, Cristina García Medinilla, CEO, points out that the emotional dimension remains a pending issue in cancer care.