Recent studies show that certain personality types are more likely to be diagnosed with Cancer than others. Discover the common personality traits and the reasons why.
Most people are familiar with the idea of the "Heart Attack Personality" ("Type A": hostile, aggressive, prone to emotional outbursts). However, few people are aware that there is also a typical "Cancer Personality" as well. The common character traits shared by cancer patients have been studied and documented in recent years, and now many holistic practitioners are addressing these issues as a part of the healing process.
It is important to recognize that everyone has cancer cells in their body. We have trillions of cells in our bodies and there is an ongoing process in which millions of cells die and millions of others divide to replace them. During this process, the DNA sequence is passed along from one cell to another. A cancer cell develops when the sequence is modified or mutated during the division process. This may happen for a variety of reasons, including viruses, bacteria or parasites, nuclear or electromagnetic radiation, chemical exposure, free radicals or aging DNA. Research shows that a healthy person may have around 10,000 cancer cells in their body at any given time. Typically, the immune system destroys the cancer cells before they can divide and form new ones. Cancer tumors develop in weakened or traumatized parts of the body.
What weakens the body and the immune system's ability to destroy the cancer cells? Studies show that one's personality plays a large role in this. Researchers believe individuals fitting the "Type C" personality are at greater risk for developing cancer. Several traits define this personality type:
- Poor ability to cope with stress
- Highly conscientious, responsible and caring (particularly for others): These individuals often have a tendency to take on the burdens of others.
- Deep desire to make others happy, often at their own expense (people pleasers)
- Harboring suppressed toxic emotions (anger, resentment or hostility): These individuals often show an inability to express and resolve deep emotional problems or conflicts and are often unaware of their presence.
- History of lack of closeness with one or both parents, perhaps resulting in the same lack of closeness with a spouse.
This research is strong evidence of the mind-body connection, proving that the health of the mind deeply impacts that of the body. Ongoing suppression and internalization of emotion weakens the body. However, many argue that personality directly influences behavior. Those matching the above personality traits may be more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking. Whatever the reason, the correlation suggests that managing these "personality traits" may be a necessary step towards recovery.
Making some minor lifestyle adjustments, such as managing stress and improving diet, can have a significant impact on health. However, no one should feel his "personality" will give him cancer. It is more important for people to be aware that their mental state, their behaviors and reactions to the world around them, and their strategies for dealing with emotions are an important part of being healthy. Running a mile a day and taking vitamins won't counteract the effects of what goes on internally. Self-awareness and continual self-improvement have a critical role in healing and preventing disease.
Reference: Cowan, Thomas S. The Fourfold Path to Healing. 2004
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