- Blog /
- August 10, 2022
5 Myths and Facts about Breast Cancer
Unless people experience breast cancer in their own lives, or they are close to someone who does, they might not be able to separate myth from fact when it comes to this disease. Although breast cancer is one of the better-known and more-talked-about cancers, there are still many misconceptions out there:
MYTH: If you maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat healthy, and limit alcohol, you do not have to worry about breast cancer.
FACT: Although these behaviors can help lower breast cancer risk, they can not eliminate it.
MYTH: Breast cancer always causes a lump you can feel.
FACT: Breast cancer might not cause a lump, especially when it first develops. People are sometimes under the impression that breast cancer always causes a lump that can be felt during a self-exam. Although performing breast self-exams is certainly a good idea, it is not a substitute for regular screening with mammography.
MYTH: Using deodorants, antiperspirants, and body sprays can cause breast cancer.
FACT: Although most deodorants and antiperspirants contain chemical toxins, there is no known link between these chemicals and breast cancer.
MYTH: If no one in your family has had breast cancer, you can not get it either.
FACT: Breast cancer can be strongly influenced by genes. However, only about 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases occur in women who have a hereditary aggravating factor, meaning that the vast majority of cases are random.
MYTH: Having small breasts means there is a lower risk of getting breast cancer.
FACT: No scientific connection has been found between breast size and risk of developing breast cancer. However, because there is more tissue, it is more difficult for people with large breasts to notice changes. Regardless of size, every woman should examine her breasts regularly.