Myth: I don’t have a family history of Breast Cancer so it is not possible for me to get it
Fact: Most people who are diagnosed with Breast Cancer do not have a family history of breast cancer
Only about 5-10% of newly diagnosed breast cancer cases are known to have a genetic predisposition. These inherited breast cancers are caused by abnormal gene mutations passed on from parent to child. Healthy breast cells can mutate on their own and turn cancerous. Ageing itself is a risk factor in breast cancer and other environmental factors and to an extent, even lifestyle conditions (weight gain and obesity) can increase one’s risk to breast cancer.
Myth: Wearing a bra, especially an underwire bra can cause breast cancer
Fact: There is no evidence to support the above statement.
This is a popular internet myth and various baseless media reports have from time to time fuelled this thought. It is a myth that underwire bras block the lymphatic flow of the breast causing cancer. There is no evidence to support that wearing any kind of bra or a bra at night can cause breast cancer. The same holds true for anti-perspirants and deodorants as well. There is no proof that these can cause breast cancer in women. Instead of believing unsubstantiated rumours a woman can make lifestyle choices to reduce her cancer risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, eating a nutritious diet and never smoking.
Myth: Any and all lumps in breast is cancer
Fact: Only a small percentage of lumps turn out to be cancer
Only a small percentage of lumps turn out to be cancer. Some lumps come and go during the menstrual cycle. Other causes include infection, trauma, cyst or an abnormal non-cancerous growth such as a fibroadenoma. A person who detects a breast lump should have it evaluated as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct a clinical examination and if required, may also order additional tests like an ultrasound and mammogram. A fine needle aspiration cytology can also be conducted by a pathologist. This is a simple outpatient procedure in which cells aspirated from the lump are examined under a microscope to determine whether they are cancerous or non-cancerous. It is also possible that one may develop breast cancer without developing any noticeable lumps.
Myth: Only women get breast cancer
Fact: Men can also get breast cancer. In fact the prognosis is poor as compared to women mainly due to lack of awareness about early signs leading to late detection at an advanced stage.
Breast cancer in men usually develops as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola. Men have a 1 in 1000 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. A delay in seeking treatment due to lack of awareness leads to higher mortality amongst men who develop breast cancer. Breast cancer in Indian males has been reported to occur at a relatively early age and the disease is aggressive in nature.
Myth: It is possible to prevent breast cancer
Fact: Risk factors for breast cancer include genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. Some are modifiable and others are not due to which it is not possible to eliminate breast cancer. Screening and early detection lead to better outcomes.
Factors that increase the risk of developing breast cancer include female gender, age, family history, personal history, certain genetic factors, beginning menstruation before the age of 12, first pregnancy after 35 yrs., hitting menopause after 55, breast density, race etc. Other factors which may add to the risk include obesity, lack of physical exercise and consumption of alcohol. A woman may have all of the risk factors and not develop breast cancer and a woman may have none of these risk factors and still develop breast cancer.
Routine breast self-exams and an annual mammogram ideally starting at age 40 will help in diagnosing breast cancer at the earliest possible. Women 55 yrs. and older can switch to mammograms every 2 yrs. Some women because of their family history, a genetic tendency or certain other factors may require MRI along with mammograms. Early diagnosis remains the primary way to prevent life threatening breast cancer. Early detection is very important for favourable outcomes and therefore knowing about the risk factors and symptoms and keeping yourself aware is very important. If you have a family history of breast cancer, it is all the more important to take all precautions. Take control of your health and help reduce breast cancer risk.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
