Demystifying 6 Myths About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer represents nearly 25% of all cancer cases worldwide, making it the most common type of cancer. Such a high incidence rate is resulting in many talks among people. It’s true that cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases that can shake anyone’s spirit. Not to forget, cancer treatment is expensive, and the results are unpredictable in later stages. In response to the exorbitant cost of cancer treatment, many people buy a cancer insurance plan to safeguard themselves from the financial woes.

Being informed in this information age is relatively easy, and many people know much more about the human body than ever. However, there’s also a disruption that is leading certain myths to float around on the internet. It is also true in the case of cancer, especially breast cancer. A quick Google search on “breast cancer causes” will lead to thousands of results claiming, ‘X causes breast cancer’, ‘Y leads to breast cancer’, and so on.

In an attempt to disapprove popular misconceptions, here are 5 myths about breast cancer:

Myth 1 – Breast Cancer is Hereditary

People think that breast cancer is hereditary and that if it runs in the family, others will have it too. However, that is not the case. Only 5-10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary and are caused by inheriting an altered gene. However, since breast cancer makes up for a quarter of all cancer cases, it may not be shocking to find it running in the family. Hence, why people think breast cancer is hereditary, but it is not.

Myth 2 – Wearing a Bra Causes Cancer

A popular myth surrounding breast cancer involves bras. People think that wearing underwired bras causes breast cancer or even increase the risk. There have been concerns regarding the restriction of lymph fluid in the breast which can cause toxins to deposit and divide. However, population-based case-control study shows that wearing an underwired bra is not associated with cancer.

Myth 3 – Deodorants Cause Breast Cancer

Another myth is that deodorants can cause breast cancer. People believe that deodorants stop the body from releasing toxins through sweat glands. They also believe that toxins keep building up in the lymph nodes under the armpits, which can cause breast cancer. Even though sweating is one of the ways of releasing toxins, it doesn’t have anything to do with the lymph nodes. A study was conducted that found no link between breast cancer and the use of deodorants. Hence, without any conclusive evidence, this popular internet tale remains a myth.

Myth 4 – Only Women Get Breast Cancer

It’s a common belief among people that only women get breast cancer – partially because men don’t have breasts. However, that’s not true. Men have breast tissues and can indeed get breast cancer. Even though the number of Male Breast Cancer (MBC) cases only make up for 1.03% of total breast cancer cases – it is indeed not a myth.

Myth 5 – Young Women Don’t Have to Worry About Getting Breast Cancer

Women of all ages should be vigilant about breast cancer signs. Even though most breast cancer cases surface in women over 40 years of age, young women still need to watch out. There has been a slight rise in the number of metastatic breast cancer cases in women between 25-39 years of age. Only 4-6% of women under 40 get breast cancer – a small number, but enough cases to show that younger women need to be vigilant and stop believing in such myths.

Myth 6 – Breast Cancer Can Be Prevented

It’s a common notion to think that breast cancer can be prevented, but sadly it cannot. The cause is not clear, so there’s no way to prevent breast cancer. However, people can surely lower their risk. Poor diet, obesity, alcohol, smoking and inactive lifestyle are factors that increase the risk of breast cancer. So, by cutting down these risk factors, the overall breast cancer risk can be lowered.

Securing Yourself Against Breast Cancer

It’s not uncommon to see people believing in certain myths; however, in cases such as breast cancer, it’s best to be informed with facts. Everyone, irrespective of age or gender should conduct self-evaluation for lumps and other breast cancer signs. Women over 40 should consider regular mammograms for early detection.

Furthermore, it’s important to be financially backed as cancer can strike anytime and the treatment is expensive. A cancer insurance plan is highly recommended as it will financially safeguard in case of such an event. Insurers like Future Generali offer coverage up to Rs. 40 lakhs for both minor and major stages of cancer. Remember, to adopt healthy habits and to carry out your own research before believing in myths.