Bust the Myths… Get the Facts
DOES BREAST CANCER ONLY OCCUR IN OLDER WOMEN?
No. While it’s true that the risk of breast cancer increases as we grow older, breast cancer can occur at almost any age.
IS EVERY LUMP THAT I DISCOVER IN MY BREAST CANCEROUS?
No, about 80% of breast lumps are benign or not cancerous. If you discover a lump in your breast or any change in your breast tissue, it is very important that you bring it to the attention of your doctor.
WILL I DEFINITELY GET BREAST CANCER IF ONE OF MY FAMILY MEMBERS HAS IT?
No. However, your risk is slightly higher, and this risk increases with the number of relatives diagnosed. It is important to share your family’s medical history with your physician.
DO BRAS INCREASE MY RISK FOR BREAST CANCER?
No. Although it may cause temporary discomfort, the idea that constant pressure on the breast causes trauma is not true. Read more about bras and the breast cancer myth.
CAN MEN GET BREAST CANCER?
Yes. Although women are at a much higher risk, the American Cancer Society estimates that about 2,600 men per year are diagnosed in the United States. They estimate that about 500 men will die each year from breast cancer. Read more about men and breast cancer.
DO ANTIPERSPIRANTS CAUSE BREAST CANCER?
No. Researchers have not found any conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants with the development of breast cancer. The National Cancer Institute, and the American Cancer Society agree with this statement.
IF I HAVE LARGE BREASTS, AM I AT A GREATER RISK FOR BREAST CANCER?
No. Breast size does not play a role in the risk of developing breast cancer.
DO BREAST IMPLANTS CAUSE BREAST CANCER?
No. Implants may make it harder for a doctor to interpret a mammogram. If there is any difficulty with a specific view, the possibility of getting an MRI can help resolve an ambiguous X-ray.
IS A LUMP THE ONLY SIGN OF BREAST CANCER?
No. There are also other signs like red skin, skin texture that feels like an orange peel, and breasts that feel itchy and warm. It is important to note visual changes to the breast during your breast self-exam.
DO NIPPLE PIERCINGS CAUSE BREAST CANCER?
Nipple piercings do not cause breast cancer. However, they can cause infection and complications with breastfeeding.
DOES GETTING HIT IN THE CHEST CAUSE BREAST CANCER?
No, getting hit in the chest does not cause breast cancer. If you are hit hard enough in the chest a lump may form, but it is not a cancerous lump.
DOES PAIN INDICATE BREAST CANCER?
Most breast cancers do not cause breast pain, but some do. Pain is more often associated with benign conditions or the menstrual cycle. However, it is important that you speak to your doctor about any new symptoms.