Cancer Is Not a Joke - Top 10 Breast Cancer Myths

In honor of April Fool's Day, I thought I would take a few minutes and discuss the top ten myths that surround breast cancer.  Cancer is no laughing matter, so let's clear up some of the confusion about breast cancer.

Myth #1:  Men can't get breast cancer. While it is more common for a woman to develop breast cancer, the disease can be more dangerous for men because it is overlooked.  Approximately 1600 men will develop breast cancer in the United States this year.

Myth #2:  Underwire bras can cause breast cancer.  The origins of this myth are nothing more than a rumor.  While it is important that women are comfortable, it is not true that under wire bras are responsible for breast cancer.

Myth #3: Women under 40 do not get breast cancer.  Women of all ages can develop breast cancer, and it is important for women of all ages to do a breast self examination monthly.  It is true, however, that a woman's risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. 

Myth #4:  Antiperspirants and deodorants can cause breast cancer.  The rumor that circulated had to do with wearing deodorant and/or antiperspirant and then cutting your underarm while shaving, causing the chemical to get into the blood stream and cause cancer.  This is, thankfully, not true.

Myth #5:  Birth control pills cause cancer.  Birth control pills do contain estrogen, but not in the amount that is thought to play a role in the development of breast cancer.  If you have concerns about the side effects of your oral contraceptives, please discuss with your physician.

Myth #6:  Mammograms can spread breast cancer, or even cause it.  The amount of radiation is so low during a mammogram that there is no doubt that it is safe.  It is an effective early prevention tool, and is not thought to have many risks associated with it.  There are safety standards put in place by the American College of Radiology and enforced by Congress.

Myth #7:  A lump in the breast is breast cancer.  In fact only 20% of lumps are actually cancerous.  There are many causes of lumps in breasts.  That being said... there is no reason to wait to see the doctor if you find a lump in your breast.

Myth #8:  Breast Cancer only develops in one breast.  Breast cancer has the ability to form or spread in both breasts.

Myth #9:  A mastectomy is the only treatment for breast cancer.  There are several effective treatment options for breast cancer patients including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.  Mastectomy is not the only course of treatment.

Myth #10: Women with small breasts have a very low risk of developing breast cancer.  Breast cancer does not discriminate between large or small breasts.  The amount of breast tissue a woman has does not govern her risk factor for developing breast cancer.

This April, don't be fooled by these common breast cancer myths! 

Myths provided by: www.cancer.about.com