10 Breast Cancer Myths busted

There are a number of practices that we consider cause breast cancer. Being aware is good but living with false facts is not correct.

Myth 1: Only women get Breast Cancer.

Fact: It is possible for men also to develop breast cancer. For males, the lifetime risk is about 1/10^th of 1%.

Myth 2: There is nothing you can do to lower your Breast Cancer risk.

Fact: Lifestyle and environmental cause about 90% of breast cancers. The risk can be lowered by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink.

Myth 3: Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk.

Fact: About 70-80% of the women who develop breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors. Only 5-10% of the cases are thought to be hereditary. However hereditary doubles the risk.

Myth 4: Wearing an underwire bra increases your breast cancer risk.

Fact: It has been proven unscientific that unwire bras cause breast cancer. Neither the type nor the tightness of the bra has any connection to breast cancer.

Myth 5: Most lumps are cancerous.

Fact: Cysts/lumps can be benign – non cancerous. Infact 80% of the lumps are due to other causes. However it is important to report any changes in the breast shape, size. Consultation with a specialist is essential.

Myth 6: Antiperspirants cause breast cancer.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim, either because of toxin buildup or aluminum exposure.

Myth7: Breast Cancer always comes in the form of a lump.

Fact: A lump may be one form of an indication, however women should look out for other signs such as swelling , skin irritation, dimpling , breast or nipple pain , nipple retraction (turning inwards), redness, scaliness, thickening of the nipple, discharge from the breasts other than breast milk.

Myth 8: Mammograms expose you to radiation increasing your cancer risk.

Fact: While it is true that Mammograms use radiation, the amount is so small that the potential preventive benefits outweigh any associated risks. Through Mammography lumps that cannot be felt can be detected easily and early.

Myth 9: Needle biopsies cause cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body.

Fact: There is no conclusive evidence to support the same.

Myth 10: Removing the entire breast – Mastectomy betters your chances of surviving breast cancer.

Fact: Survival options are similar for radiation and surgical treatment. As prescribed by your doctor the best treatment path should be followed.

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