Breast Cancer Myths -A few of them

/ Dr Poovamma CU
  • Not every lump in the breast is cancer. Only a small percentage of breast lumps are diagnosed to be cancer.
  • Only if you have a family history will you develop breast cancer. Genetic factors are estimated to cause 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases.
  • Men do not get breast cancer. 1% of breast cancer occurs in men.
  • Breast cancer is contagious. No its definitely not.
  • Mammogram prevent cancer. Mammogram help in early detection of cancer.
  • Wearing a bra (tight/underwired) increases the risk of cancer. Wearing a bra and type of bra does not effect cancer rate.
  • Removing the entire breast(mastectomy) is better than just removing the cancer(lumpectomy) and having radiation treatment, in terms of survival. Discuss with your doctor the various options available to you.
  • Presence BRCA1and BRCA2 gene mutation does not mean you have to develop cancer. The chances of developing cancer is much higher in the presence of this mutation but not 100%. Talk to your doctor about risk reducing measures.
  • Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer. Researchers do not have any conclusive evidence for this.
  • Having an breast implant increases the risk of cancer. Implants do not increase the risk of cancer, however more mammogram views may be required to examine the breast.

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