5 DEBUNKED Breast Cancer Myths

Myth: Men can't get breast cancer.
Truth: Each year approximately 2,190 men are diagnosed with breast cancer and 410 will die. While many more women are diagnosed with breast cancer, men carry a higher mortality rate than women. This is primarily because breast cancer awareness among men is lower and they are less likely to perform self-exams or assume a lump could be breast cancer, resulting in a delay of treatment.

Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means that you definitely have breast cancer.
Truth: Only a small percentage of breast lumps are cancerous. However, if you detect a persistent lump or any changes in breast tissue, get a clinical breast exam by a physician. A breast imaging study may be ordered to determine if the lump is of concern.

Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer.
Truth: Researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) are not aware of any conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants and the subsequent development of breast cancer.

Myth: If you have a family history of breast cancer, you are likely to develop breast cancer, too.
Truth: Only about 10 percent of individuals who are diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease. However, women who have a family history of breast cancer are in a higher-risk group.

Myth: A mammogram can cause cancer to spread.
Truth: An X-ray of the breast, or mammogram, is the best tool for early detection of breast cancer and it cannot cause cancer to spread. According to the NCI, "The benefits of mammography nearly always outweigh the potential harm from radiation exposure. Mammograms require very small doses of radiation."

Source: National Cancer Institute