Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of women worldwide.

Unfortunately, there are still many myths and misunderstandings surrounding breast cancer, which can make it difficult for women to understand their risk factors and what they can do to prevent the disease. To help clear up some of these misconceptions, let’s take a look at 10 truths and myths about breast cancer.

Truth #1: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women

It’s true: breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women around the world. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is responsible for over 2 million new cases and 600,000 deaths per year.

That’s why it’s so important for women to be aware of their breast health and take steps to reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Myth #1: Only women get breast cancer

While it’s true that breast cancer is more common in women than men, men can still develop the disease. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), about 1 in every 1,000 men will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.

It’s important for both men and women to be aware of their breast health and to watch for any changes or abnormalities.

Truth #2: Age is a significant risk factor for breast cancer

As women get older, their risk of developing breast cancer increases. According to the ACS, about 2 out of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older.

That’s why it’s important for women to start receiving regular mammograms at age 50 (or earlier, if recommended by a doctor) to help detect any potential signs of breast cancer.

Myth #2: Breast cancer is always hereditary

While there are certain genetic mutations that can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer (such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes), the majority of breast cancer cases are not inherited.

In fact, as many as 85% of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease.

Truth #3: Early detection is key to successful treatment

The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more successful treatment is likely to be. That’s why it’s so important for women to undergo regular mammograms and to watch for any changes or abnormalities in their breasts.

By catching the disease early, doctors have more treatment options available and the chances of a full recovery are much higher.

Myth #3: Women with small breasts are less likely to get breast cancer

There is no correlation between breast size and the risk of developing breast cancer. In fact, breast cancer can occur in both small and large breasts.

Women of all breast sizes should be aware of their breast health and take steps to reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Truth #4: A healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of breast cancer

While there is no way to completely prevent breast cancer, there are certain lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk of developing the disease. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption.

By making these changes, you can help support your overall health and reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Myth #4: Breast cancer always comes in the form of a lump

While a lump in the breast is a common symptom of breast cancer, it’s not the only sign of the disease.

Other possible symptoms include nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or size, and skin changes around the breast (such as redness or dimpling). It’s important for women to be aware of all the possible symptoms of breast cancer and to seek medical attention if they notice anything unusual.

Truth #5: Breastfeeding can reduce your risk of breast cancer

Research has shown that breastfeeding can help reduce a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. This is because breastfeeding can help lower estrogen levels in the body, which can help reduce the risk of abnormal cell growth in the breast.

Women who breastfeed for at least 12 months may be able to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer by up to 5%.

Myth #5: Wearing an underwire bra can increase your risk of breast cancer

There is no evidence to suggest that wearing an underwire bra can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. While some women may find underwire bras uncomfortable, they are not known to cause any harm or increase the risk of breast cancer.

Truth #6: Breast cancer treatment can cause side effects

While breast cancer treatment can be highly effective in treating the disease, it can also cause a range of side effects. These can include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, and changes in mood or appetite.

It’s important for women to work closely with their healthcare team to manage any side effects and to ensure the best possible outcome from treatment.

Myth #6: Mammograms are painful and not worth the discomfort

While mammograms can be uncomfortable, they are an essential tool for detecting breast cancer and are the most effective screening method currently available.

The benefits of early detection far outweigh any temporary discomfort or inconvenience associated with the procedure. If you have concerns about the discomfort of mammograms, talk to your doctor about ways to make the process more comfortable.

Truth #7: Breast cancer can recur even after successful treatment

Even after successful treatment, breast cancer can recur and spread to other parts of the body.

That’s why it’s important for women who have been treated for breast cancer to continue to undergo regular checkups and screenings to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Catching the disease early can help ensure the best possible outcome from treatment.

Myth #7: A breast cancer diagnosis is always a death sentence

Thanks to advances in medical research, breast cancer is no longer the death sentence it once was. Today, the vast majority of women with breast cancer are able to successfully undergo treatment and achieve a full recovery.

While a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, it’s important to remember that with early detection and appropriate treatment, the outlook is often very positive.

Truth #8: Women with a family history of breast cancer are at higher risk

Women with a family history of breast cancer (especially in a mother, sister, or daughter) are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves.

In fact, women with a first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with breast cancer have about twice the risk of developing the disease than women with no family history. If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Myth #8: Deodorant and antiperspirant can cause breast cancer

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that using deodorant or antiperspirant can increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

While some early studies suggested a possible link, larger, more recent studies have not found any evidence to support this claim.

Truth #9: Certain lifestyle factors can increase your risk of breast cancer

In addition to age, there are a number of lifestyle factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

These include using hormonal birth control, undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause, and exposure to certain environmental toxins (such as tobacco smoke or chemicals used in some industrial processes). By making changes to reduce these risk factors, women can help support their overall health and reduce their risk of breast cancer.

Myth #9: Breast cancer always causes pain or discomfort

While breast cancer can cause pain or discomfort, it often does not. In fact, many women with breast cancer experience no symptoms at all, which is why regular mammograms and other screening tests are so important.

If you notice any changes or abnormalities in your breasts (such as a lump, discharge, or changes in skin texture), seek medical attention right away.

Truth #10: Breast cancer is a complex disease with many different types and subtypes

Finally, it’s important to remember that breast cancer is a complex disease with many different types and subtypes.

Each patient’s experience with breast cancer is likely to be unique, and treatment will depend on a number of factors, including the type and stage of the disease. That’s why it’s important for women with breast cancer to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their individual needs.