10 Myths About Breast Cancer- Debunked

Myth 1: Breast injury can cause breast cancer

There is no evidence to show that injury to the breast gives rise to cancer, nevertheless, it may induce alterations in the breast that appear like breast cancer on imaging.

Myth 2: Underwire bras increase the risk of breast cancer

No evidence to prove that underwired bras cause cancer. In some, The wire may irritate the skin beneath the breast, causing skin injury and breakdown, but not cancer.

Myth 3: If no one in my family had breast cancer, I will not develop it

Only 10% of breast cancers may be caused by a possible genetic mutation or may be familial. The majority are sporadic in occurrence. Hence, every woman over the age of 40 is advised to get a mammogram annually, or once in 2 years.

Myth 4: Nipple piercings increase breast cancer risk

Breast cancer risk is not increased by nipple piercings.

Myth 5: Sugar intake can cause Breast cancer

No proof of the above in literature, currently. Sugar, in general, should be avoided for overall good health and to prevent lifestyle diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes etc. Obesity increases the risk of developing breast cancer in postmenopausal women, which can be caused by eating too much sugar.

Myth 6: Men won’t get breast cancer

Even though breast cancer is more frequent in women, men can also develop it. It’s crucial for men to be aware of any noticeable changes in their breast because there are no suggested screening recommendations for males.

Myth 7: Deodorants and antiperspirants cause breast cancer

Many individuals believe that the toxic chemicals in the items enter the lymph nodes and disseminate to the breast tissue causing cancer. There is no evidence that antiperspirant or deodorant use causes breast cancer, therefore these are safe to use.

Myth 8: A mammogram can cause breast cancer

Mammograms do not cause breast cancer, according to available data. The amount of radiation that a woman is exposed to during a mammogram is miniscule, to cause any damage. Mammogram is in fact the gold standard, to detect breast cancer.

Myth 9: Individuals with breast cancer always experience a lump

The majority of breast lumps are not cancer and not every individual with cancer can feel a lump. Breast cancer may also present as skin thickening, ulceration, dimpling, nipple discharge, scaliness of the nipple and/or skin and nipple retraction (turning inward).

Myth 10: Having an abortion increases the risk of breast cancer

There is no evidence for the same.