Glandular fever EBV related cancers. Very scared

Hello, i had glandular fever as a child at 12 years old, im now 24 and have learnt that ebv can cause cancer. Im absolutely petrified.

Is there anyone that can reassure me that this is rare? Ive even had to visit the doctor about the debilitating anxiety this has caused me , i already had health anxiety now i basically feel like somebodys told me im going to get cancer for sure. 
ive looked at the statistics and it says 1% of all cancers are down to ebv. I coukd really do with some reassurance. I know some people have live with ebv in their body for 40 years and are fine. Im just absolutely in bits. Please offer me some kind positive words if you can. Itd mean the world. 
thank you
 

  • Hello Ellieellie,

    I'm sorry to read that you had Glandular Fever as a child. I've heard that it can be very debilitating and no doubt you had to have quite a bit of time off school then.  I wonder if this is when your anxiety started after going through such an unpleasant illness?

    I have no idea whether contracting GF makes you more susceptible to cancer later on in life, but I should imagine it is highly unlikely.  It's never a good thing to 'research' on Dr Google!  We've all done it but there is so much inaccurate information on the internet, it's definitely a good thing NOT to bother with this.

    I think you have done the right thing seeing your GP as it sounds as if you are suffering from anxiety generally and this has manifested itself as health anxiety.  This can be very debilitating.  You are a similar age to one of my children and at 24 there is a lot going on.  Maybe you've been through uni and are starting a career?  Lots going on and no doubt the care free days of school seem a long time ago!  
    You are young and very likely healthy.  Don't let these worries take root, enjoy your life and stay busy.  We can all overthink things when we have too much spare time that isn't filled.  See your friends, get to the gym or do sport and hobbies.  Keeping busy and focused will really help you and in time I hope you will feel less anxious.  
    Do go back to your GP if you are still struggling.

    Wishing you all the best.

    Mary

  •  Dear Ellieellie, I am so sorry to hear that your fear is taking you over.  Keep off researching the internet, it's likely only to upset & confuse you more.  MacMillan have a talking helpline.  Also, the NHS Mental Health Emergency Helpline tel no for your area can be obtained easily from that site.  Good luck and God bless.  Keep in touch.