- Abeeha Asad & Laiha Bilal
MYTHS VS. FACTS
A Guide to Breast Cancer Awareness
Abeeha Asad & Laiha Bilal
Breast cancer occurs when breast cells grow abnormally, forming a tumor that may appear as a lump or show up on a mammogram. Despite being one of the most common cancers among women, understanding breast cancer is often clouded by myths that can mislead people about their risks, symptoms, and treatments.
These misconceptions can create unnecessary fear or deter individuals from seeking the medical advice they need. Knowing the facts is essential for early detection, informed prevention, and better health decisions. Here, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about breast cancer and share truths that everyone should know.
1.Myth: Only women get breast cancer.
Fact: Men can also develop breast cancer, though it’s less common. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 726 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Both men and women have breast tissue, meaning breast cancer can affect anyone.
2.Myth: Finding a lump always means you have breast cancer.
Fact: Not all lumps are cancerous; many are benign (non-cancerous). Conditions like cysts or fibroadenomas are common in many women. However, any lump should be checked by a healthcare provider to rule out cancer. Doctors recommend regular self-exams and clinical exams to monitor breast health.
3.Myth: If there’s no family history of breast cancer, you’re not at risk.
Fact: Family history is only one risk factor. According to the National Cancer Institute, many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease. Other factors, such as age, lifestyle choices (like diet and exercise), and certain genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) can also increase risk.
4.Myth: Carrying a cell phone in your bra causes breast cancer.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence linking cell phone placement near the breast with an increased cancer risk. Research conducted by the World Health Organization found no definitive link between mobile phone use and breast cancer risk. However, it’s generally recommended to keep phones away from the body as a precautionary measure.
5.Myth: Wearing a bra, especially an underwire one, increases breast cancer risk.
Fact: There is no credible research supporting the idea that wearing bras—underwired or otherwise—leads to breast cancer. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found no association between bra wearing and breast cancer risk. Additionally, organizations such as the Cancer Council emphasize that there is no evidence to support this myth, reinforcing the understanding that factors such as genetics and lifestyle choices play a more significant role in breast cancer risk.
6.Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer.
Fact: Concerns about chemicals in deodorants, particularly aluminum, sparked this myth. However, multiple studies, including those reviewed by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute NCI, have found no scientific evidence linking antiperspirants or deodorants to breast cancer.
7.Myth: Breastfeeding increases your risk of breast cancer.
Fact: Breastfeeding actually reduces the risk of breast cancer, especially if done for a year or more. The World Health Organization states that breastfeeding can lower estrogen exposure, which is associated with breast cancer risk. Additionally, a review published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and available through PubMed Central (PMC) confirms that breastfeeding is linked to a decreased risk of breast cancer, further supporting this beneficial effect.
8.Myth: Breast cancer always shows symptoms, like a lump or pain.
Fact: Breast cancer can be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, are crucial for early detection, even if no symptoms are present. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women begin regular screening mammograms at age 50 and continue biennially until age 74.
9.Myth: Breast cancer only affects older women.
Fact: While age increases risk, young women and even teenagers can develop breast cancer. The Susan G. Komen Foundation reports that around 11% of breast cancer cases occur in women under 45. Awareness and regular self-exams are essential at any age.
10.Myth: A mastectomy is the only treatment for breast cancer.
Fact: Treatment for breast cancer varies based on the type and stage of the disease. Options may include lumpectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal treatments. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, and doctors typically discuss the best options based on individual circumstances.
Early detection of breast cancer is essential for effective treatment and better outcomes. Regular mammograms can detect cancer before symptoms appear, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment, with the National Breast Cancer Foundation noting a five-year survival rate of 99% when caught early.
Dispelling myths surrounding breast cancer is crucial for promoting accurate knowledge, encouraging individuals to seek early screenings, and making informed decisions about their health. Education and awareness are key tools in the fight against breast cancer, empowering people to protect themselves and support those affected by the disease.
