Breast Cancer Myths

  • Not every lump in the breast is cancer.

Fact: Only a small percentage of breast lumps are diagnosed to be cancer.

  • Only if you have a family history will you develop breast cancer.

Fact: Genetic factors are estimated to cause only 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases.

  • Men do not get breast cancer.

Fact: 1% of breast cancer occurs in men.

  • Breast cancer is contagious.

Fact: No its definitely not.

  • Mammogram can prevent cancer.

Fact: Mammogram will help in early detection of cancer.

  • Wearing a bra (tight/underwired) increases the risk of cancer.

Fact: Wearing a bra and type of bra does not effect cancer rate.

  • Removing the entire breast (mastectomy) is better than just removing the cancer (lumpectomy) and having radiation treatment, in terms of survival.

Fact: Discuss with your doctor the various options available to you.

  • Presence BRCA1and BRCA2 gene mutation does not mean you have to develop cancer.

Fact: The chances of developing cancer is much higher in the presence of this mutation but not 100%. Talk to your doctor about risk reducing measures.

  • Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer.

Fact: Researchers do not have any conclusive evidence for this.

  • Having an breast implant increases the risk of cancer. 

Fact: Implants do not increase the risk of cancer, however more mammogram views may be required to examine the breast.

Next Article:- Time to lose weight: Obesity a modifiable risk factor in Breast Cancer

Published by Dhyan

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