Many myths about Breast Cancer continue to spread globally, creating confusion about breast cancer symptoms, risks, screening, and treatment. Unfounded fear from misconceptions can increase the time it takes to be diagnosed and/or keep individuals from receiving proper treatment. Understanding the true facts about these myths is important for awareness, as well as early detection and improved outcomes for individuals with breast cancer. The purpose of this blog post is to bust some of the most common myths about breast cancer and provide you with accurate, evidence-based information.
What are the myths about breast cancer?
Myth 1: Breast cancer is only found in females. Although it is very uncommon, males are also at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer (although males have much lower risks than females). It is very important for males to remain aware of the possibility of being diagnosed with breast cancer because the diagnosis is usually delayed significantly in males, as they usually don’t know enough about breast cancer.
Myth 2: The presence of a lump in your breast means cancer. A lump in your breast could be cancer or not be cancer. Most lumps on breasts are benign (not cancer), including cysts and fibroadenomas; however, any new lump in your breast should be evaluated by a medical provider to determine if it could be caused by something serious.
Myth 3: Only older females develop breast cancer. Although age is the most important factor influencing breast cancer risk, younger females can also develop breast cancer. In fact, females under age 40 are relatively uncommon in having breast cancer; however, they will generally have a more aggressive form of cancer and need to be diagnosed promptly.
Myth 4: Family history is the only concerning factor. Although family history can increase risk, most patients diagnosed will not have significant family histories of breast cancer, and other risk factors, such as lifestyle behaviours, hormonal factors, and environmental factors, will also influence risk.
Myth 5: Wearing a bra causes breast cancer: There is no credible scientific data to support the claim that underwire bras or snugly–fitting bras are linked to breast cancer. Bra-related breast cancer refers to a persistent myth with no scientific basis.
Myth 6: Breast cancer is always painful: The majority of breast cancers in early stages do not produce any pain. Those who wait to experience pain as an indicator may not be diagnosed until later. For this reason alone, it is crucial to have regular screenings and to do breast self-exams.
Myth 7: Using deodorant or antiperspirant will lead to breast cancer: Scientific research has not established a causal relationship between using deodorant or antiperspirant on your underarms and having breast cancer in your adult life. The idea that deodorants could cause breast cancer likely stemmed from health concerns regarding the presence of some chemicals that have sometimes been associated with breast cancer; however, there is still no concrete evidence that supports this theory.
Myth 8: Being in good health means you won’t get breast cancer: While living a healthy lifestyle reduces your risk for breast cancer, it does not eliminate the chance! Breast cancer can also occur in a person who has no significant risk factors, so it is important to obtain routine examinations.
Myth 9: Mammography causes breast cancer: Mammograms use a very small amount of radiation and are considered to be safe. The benefits of finding breast cancer early far outweigh the minimal risks associated with using the type of machine to diagnose breast cancer.
The eradication of myths surrounding Breast Cancer is an important step toward enhancing awareness and prevention. With the correct knowledge, individuals can have ownership of their own well-being by being able to identify possible indicators of an approaching diagnosis or risk factors for developing breast cancer, as well as being able to make well-informed choices regarding their screening and other treatment options of Breast Cancer. As Breast Cancer awareness continues to increase, breaking these myths will reduce mortality rates and increase quality outcomes for millions of patients all over the globe.