Misinformation about breast cancer can lead to myths and misconceptions about breast cancer causes, risk, symptoms, screening, diagnosis, and treatment. With so much information available online and through social media, it can be difficult to know what to believe.
Understanding the facts surrounding breast cancer can help you make informed decisions about your health and recognize when it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider. Exploring common breast cancer myths to separate fact from fiction and learn what the latest evidence says about breast cancer is a great way to stay informed and empowered about your breast health.
While most breast cancer is more common in middle-aged and older women, a diagnosis can happen at any age. Younger women can develop breast cancer, although it is less common.
Men can get breast cancer, too. About 1% of breast cancers occur in men. Although male breast cancer is rare, men should know the signs and symptoms and report any unusual changes to their healthcare provider.
There is no connection between breast size and cancer risk. However, larger breasts may sometimes make it more challenging to examine the breast or notice certain changes.
Not all breast lumps are breast cancer. Most breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous). However, all changes in your breasts—including a lump—should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.s
Breast pain is not usually a sign of breast cancer, but breast cancer can sometimes cause pain. It’s important to tell your doctor about any changes in your breast, including breast pain.
Mammograms use a low dose of x-ray radiation, but the amount of radiation is very small. The benefits of mammography screening generally outweigh the potential risks from radiation exposure. Breast compression during a mammogram does not cause breast cancer or cause cancer to spread.
Not all breast cancer is the same. There are many different types and subtypes of breast cancer, each with its own unique characteristics. These differences can affect treatment and prognosis.u
Having a family history of breast cancer, particularly in close relatives, can increase your risk. However, most people diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history. Knowing your family history can help you and your doctor determine the best screening schedule for you.
Having an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene increases the risk of developing breast cancer, but it does not mean that you will definitely develop breast cancer.
Injuries to the breast do not cause breast cancer. However, an injury can sometimes cause benign (non-cancerous) changes or can draw attention to an irregularity that had previously formed.
Eating sugar does not directly cause breast cancer. However, consuming too much of any food—including sugar—can contribute to weight gain, obesity, and health issues, which can increase breast cancer risk.
There is no scientific evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants to the development of breast cancer.
There is no established evidence that carrying a cell phone in your bra causes breast cancer.
No matter what the type, bras do not cause breast cancer. However, bras that do not fit well can cause discomfort, swelling, or pain.r
Breast cancer is not contagious. You cannot catch breast cancer from someone else, and you cannot give breast cancer to someone else.
