In this information technology era, when anyone becomes sick, they first consult their Google doctors. Self-examination and self-diagnosis have become rampant, because of the information available freely on the internet. However, one needs to exercise caution before believing and acting upon this information, as many of them are not accurate, and have no scientific evidence to their claims. Misconceptions built upon this information can interfere with timely diagnosis or wrong diagnosis that can be even fatal. Similar to many other conditions, the internet is also flooded with information about breast cancer, however, it is important to know the difference between myths and truths regarding breast cancer
So, let us bust some myths about the most common cancer in women- breast cancer, and explore the real facts.
Myth: Wearing a bra can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
Fact: Reading a myth multiple times can make you believe it, but it is not the truth. Some women believe that wearing a bra (especially underwire style) may restrict the exit of lymph fluid from breast tissue, which may lead to the build-up of toxic substances. However, there is no scientific evidence to show any link between wearing a bra and breast cancer.
Myth: I will not develop breast cancer if it doesn’t run in my family.
Fact: Breast cancer is not an inherited disease. Most of the breast cancer patients have no known family history. Only 5-10% of the cases are caused due to mutation in certain genes transferred from parents to the child.
Myth: I eat healthy food, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid alcohol consumption, thus I am safe from breast cancer.
Fact: Yes, a healthy lifestyle can reduce the cancer risk, but it can’t eliminate breast cancer. Thus, it is important to look for all other risk factors, perform regular self-examination, and undergo regular screening to evaluate breast cancer in an early stage.
Myth: Use of underarm antiperspirant can lead to breast cancer.
Fact: No study has established any connection between breast cancer and the use of underarm antiperspirant. As per the rumors, using underarm antiperspirants that contain aluminum and other chemical substances can be absorbed through lymph nodes and reach breast cells, resulting in an increased risk of breast cancer. Some studies show that the use of antiperspirants stop sweating of the underarms and prevent the release of toxic chemicals increasing the risk of cancer. Till date, no scientific evidence has shown any link between the use of antiperspirant and the risk of breast cancer.
Myth: Eating a high amount of sugar leads to breast cancer.
Fact: No evidence has shown that consuming sugar leads to breast cancer. Sugar is not only linked to breast cancer but also to all cancers. According to the rumors on the internet, sugar accelerates the growth of cancer. However, the fact is that the consumption of sugar is faster in cancer cells as compared to normal cells, but it is nowhere related to causing cancer. Consumption of sugar can lead to increased weight and obesity, which is a risk factor for all cancers, including breast cancer. Therefore, be careful and watch your sugar intake.
Myth: Yearly mammograms assure early diagnosis of breast cancer.
Fact: Mammography is the best tool for early detection of breast cancer, but it does not always diagnose breast cancer at an early stage. Sometimes mammograms can show false-negative results (especially in women with dense breast tissue). It can miss around 20% of breast cancer cases. However, most breast cancers can be diagnosed by mammography, thus regular screening is essential. Monthly breast self-exam monthly and annual physical examination by a health professional is important.
Myth: No lump felt in breast means no breast cancer.
Fact: In the initial stages of breast cancer, it may not cause a lump. Breast cancer does not always cause a lump that can be felt in self-exam. Sometimes it may become a reason for skipping the annual mammograms. Sometimes till the lump is felt, the cancer might have spread to the lymph nodes. Therefore, it is advised never to miss the mammography.
Myth: It happens only in middle-aged and older women.
Fact: Breast cancer can develop in younger women or even men. Women of all ages should be aware of the symptoms and get regular self-exams. In a study performed in the year 2017, it was found that about 4% of invasive breast cancer were detected in women under 40 years. Breast cancer is rare in men, but it may happen as they also have breast tissue. Women with a family history of breast cancer should start their screening early to detect and treat the condition timely.
Take away
Every woman should be aware of the myths and facts about breast cancer. It is important to perform self-examination monthly and receive proper health checkup by a professional at least annually. For information on Breast Self-Examination, watch the video on our you tube channel, drpragnyachigurupati.
Dr. Pragnya Chigurupati is one of the best breast oncologists and oncoplastic surgeon in Hyderabad. She is currently associated with American Oncology Institute and works for a goal to bring awareness about breast cancer among women in India.
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