Breast cancer is one of the more commonly known cancers among society. The entire month of October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness, with nationwide focus on raising awareness and funds for the disease. However, in the midst of all of the information, there also are quite a few myths out there that I’d like to dispel so you know the facts about breast cancer.

1. I am too young to have breast cancer: Unfortunately, breast cancer does not discriminate. Breast cancer can come to you at any age, even as early as your teenage years. Discuss with your doctor if you have any risk increase due to genetics, and if you have any suspicion of breast cancer. Don’t let your age hold you back from finding the truth about your body.

2. Larger breasts are more likely to develop breast cancer: There isn’t a connection between the size of the breast and being diagnosed with breast cancer. However, it sometimes may be more difficult to detect due to density in larger breasts. But not to worry, because there are better and better imaging technologies that can detect a problem.

3. Having a disability means I won’t get breast cancer: Breast cancer doesn’t care what disabilities you might have already. You most certainly can have breast cancer and a disability.

4. I don’t feel a lump in my breast, so I must not have breast cancer:  By all means, if you feel a lump in your breast, please get it checked by your doctor. However, women who don’t feel any lumps can still have breast cancer. And, if you do feel a lump, it does not automatically mean that you have breast cancer. Many lumps are non-cancerous, but that is why you need to check with a doctor to make sure.

5. Deodorants and antiperspirants cause breast cancer: I remember when this myth came about and everyone was going crazy about deodorants. There has been much research about deodorants and antiperspirants and breast cancer. However, there currently isn’t any scientific link to breast cancer.

6. If you have BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene, you are destined to have breast cancer: It is true that having these genes definitely increases your chances of breast cancer, but it doesn’t mean you are certain to get breast cancer.

7. Wearing an underwire bra can increase your chances of getting breast cancer: Again, many studies took place from numerous sources and the myth is proven untrue. You can wear any bra that makes you feel comfortable.

8. Women are the only ones who get breast cancer:  Women are most likely to get breast cancer, but men also can get breast cancer. Breast cancer in men often shows up as a hard lump under the nipple and areola. Men should get this lump checked immediately. Breast cancer should not be ruled out based on gender.

***

Note: Breast Cancer News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Breast Cancer News, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to breast cancer.