Symptoms of breast cancer: While lumps are a common symptom, not all breast cancers present as a lump. Some forms, such as inflammatory breast cancer, may cause skin changes like redness, dimpling, or swelling (Image: Canva)
Breast cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and understanding it is crucial for prevention and early detection. Despite the wealth of information available, many myths and misconceptions persist, often leading to unnecessary fear and misinformation, says Dr Y. Yugandhar Reddy, a Consultant Surgical Oncologist at CARE Hospitals in Hyderabad. “It is important to dispel these myths. Understanding the facts surrounding breast cancer is essential for informed decisions about treatment and prevention," he notes.
Dr Reddy debunks some common breast cancer myths:
- Myth: A mastectomy is the only treatment for breast cancer
Fact: Breast cancer treatment is personalised, and not all patients need a mastectomy. A mastectomy removes the entire breast, but many can be treated with less invasive options like a lumpectomy, which removes only the tumor. Treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy are tailored based on the cancer's type, stage, and patient health. The aim is to preserve as much of the breast as possible while still ensuring effective treatment. Advances in medical care have made conservative treatments highly successful in many cases.
- Myth: A breast cancer diagnosis is a death sentence
Fact: This myth stems from the historical understanding of breast cancer when survival rates were lower. However, with early detection through regular screening and advancements in treatments, the survival rates for breast cancer have dramatically improved. According to studies, the 5-year relative survival rate for localized breast cancer is over 90% in many countries. Additionally, ongoing research and new therapies continue to improve the prognosis for breast cancer patients, including those with more advanced stages of the disease. Many patients go on to live long, healthy lives post-treatment, especially when the cancer is caught early.
- Myth: Using deodorants or antiperspirants causes breast cancer
Fact: This is a common and persistent myth, but scientific studies have shown no convincing evidence that deodorants or antiperspirants cause breast cancer. The myth likely originated from concerns about parabens (chemicals used in some cosmetics) and aluminum compounds, which were suspected to mimic estrogen, a hormone linked to breast cancer growth. Research has found no direct link between deodorant use and breast cancer risk. It's important to rely on evidence-based information and not be swayed by unsupported claims.
- Myth: Living a healthy lifestyle completely eliminates breast cancer risk
Fact: While a healthy lifestyle can reduce breast cancer risk, it can't eliminate it entirely. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol can lower risk, but uncontrollable factors like age, genetics, family history, and hormonal changes also play a role. This is why regular screenings, mammograms, and self-exams are essential, even for those who maintain healthy habits. Early detection increases survival rates and ensures the cancer is caught in its most treatable stages.
- Myth: Only those with a family history need to worry about breast cancer
Fact: While a family history of breast cancer can increase your risk, around 85 percent of breast cancer cases occur in individuals with no family history. Other risk factors, such as age, lifestyle, and environmental exposure, also contribute. This is why it’s important for everyone, regardless of their family history, to be vigilant about screenings and breast health, as early detection is key to improving outcomes.
- Myth: Breast cancer only affects older women
Fact: Breast cancer is more common in older women, especially those over 50, but it can affect younger individuals too. In fact, around 5-10 percent of breast cancers occur in women under 40. Breast cancer can also affect men, though it's rarer (about 1 percent of all cases), so they should be aware of potential symptoms. Regardless of age or gender, early detection significantly improves survival rates.
- Myth: If there's no lump, there's no breast cancer
Fact: While lumps are a common symptom, not all breast cancers present as a lump. Some forms, such as inflammatory breast cancer, may cause skin changes like redness, dimpling, or swelling. Other signs include nipple discharge or changes in breast shape. Since many cancers are detected before symptoms appear, mammograms and screenings are crucial for early diagnosis and better treatment options.
- Myth: Mammograms are dangerous due to radiation exposure
Fact: The radiation dose from a mammogram is very low—about 0.4 millisieverts, similar to the amount of radiation a person receives from natural surroundings over seven weeks. The benefits of regular mammograms far outweigh the risks, as early detection of breast cancer significantly increases the chance of successful treatment. Women over 40 are typically recommended to have annual or biennial mammograms, depending on personal risk factors.
- Myth: Wearing tight bras or underwear can cause breast cancer
Fact: This myth likely originated from the belief that tight bras or underwear restrict lymph flow, but no scientific studies have shown any link between wearing bras and breast cancer. There is no evidence to support this claim. Breast cancer is influenced by genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors, not clothing choices.
- Myth: Men don’t have to worry about breast cancer
Fact: While it's much rarer, men can and do get breast cancer. Men should be vigilant for symptoms such as lumps, nipple discharge, or changes in skin texture over the breast area. Risk factors include age, with most cases occurring in men over 60, and genetic mutations like BRCA2. Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome can also increase risk due to elevated estrogen levels. Men with a personal history of testicular cancer or obesity may face a higher risk as well. Early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular self-exams and health checkups are crucial for early detection.
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Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
