Myths & reality about breast cancer

Myths & reality about breast cancer

Breast cancer is the commonest malignancy among women globally. Every year, October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month globally, to motivate women to go for screening to check whether they are at risk. In this article, we will address common myths about breast cancer.

Myth: Only women get breast cancer

Reality: Breast cancer can occur in both males and females, but it is far more common in females. Although the incidence of breast cancer in women is much higher than males, it is equally important for men to undergo regular breast self-check techniques for prevention and early diagnosis.

Myth: Breast cancer occurs only in old age

Reality: You’re never too young or old to get breast cancer. While a breast lump in a younger woman is much less likely to be cancer than a lump in an older woman, it can be cancer and needs to be checked out. 25 percent of women with breast cancer are younger than 50.

Myth: Small-breasted women are less likely to get breast cancer

Reality: There’s no connection between the size of your breasts and your risk of getting breast cancer. Routine screenings and check-ups are advised regardless of breast size.

Myth: If there is no family history of breast cancer, I won’t have it

Reality:10-20 % breast cancer occurs due to genetic mutation. Most inherited cases of breast cancer are associated with mutations in two genes: BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women who have a BRCA1 mutation or BRCA2 mutation (or both) can have up to a 72% risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetimes.

Myth: Breast cancer treatment always includes chemotherapy

Reality: With newer therapies like targeted therapies, immunotherapy and newer hormonal therapies toxicities of chemotherapy can be avoided in certain group of patients.

Myth: Fertility treatment increases risk of breast cancer

Reality: All observational studies concluded that there is no increased risk of breast cancer in women who received fertility treatment compared to general population.

Myth: Breast cancer is a contagious

Reality: In general cancer occurs due to uncontrolled cell growth, due to gene mutation. So, it’s not contagious and does not spread like an infectious disease.

Myth: Mammogram can cause breast cancer

Reality: Mammogram imaging uses low doses of radiation and compression to perform the test. In fact, it is recommended as a screening and follow up tool for breast cancer.