According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer Globally. Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women. This is a type of cancer in which cancer cells develop in one or both breasts. Breast cancer usually begins in the ducts or lobules of the breasts. Lobules are the glands where milk is produced, while ducts are the pathways for milk to reach the nipple from the glands.

Although these are common areas of breast cancer, cancer cells can also grow in fatty tissue or connective tissue present in the breast. breast cancer Awareness Month Celebrated every year in the month of October. The month aims to raise awareness about the disease and how it affects the overall health of a person.

However, there are a lot of myths surrounding breast cancer. These myths prevent individuals from seeking proper medical care or getting tested for diagnosis, among others.

Here, take a look at some Myths and Facts about Breast Cancer What you should know.

Myth: Only women get breast cancer

fact: While breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop it. Male breast cancer is rare but usually occurs in older men and should not be ignored.

Myth: Finding a lump means you have breast cancer

fact: Not all breast lumps are cancerous. Many lumps are benign cysts or fibroadenomas. However, any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out cancer.

Myth: Breast cancer always runs in families

fact: Most people with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. Genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, increase the risk but lifestyle and environmental factors also play an important role.

Myth: Wearing underwire bras increases the risk of breast cancer

fact: There is no scientific evidence linking underwire bras to breast cancer. This myth states that bras restrict lymph flow, however, research shows that there is no link between wearing a bra and developing breast cancer.

Myth: Using antiperspirants causes breast cancer

fact: Studies have not found any direct link between antiperspirants and breast cancer. The myth states that the chemicals in antiperspirants penetrate the skin and affect breast tissue, however, no conclusive evidence supports this claim.

Myth: Women with smaller breasts are less likely to get breast cancer

fact: Breast size has no effect on breast cancer risk. Both small and large-breasted women can develop the disease as the risk is influenced by factors such as genetics, age and lifestyle.

Myth: Mammograms cause cancer due to exposure to radiation

fact: The level of radiation used in a mammogram is very low. The benefits of early detection far outweigh the minimal risk of radiation exposure, making mammograms a safe and effective screening tool.

Myth: If you don’t have symptoms, you don’t have breast cancer

fact: Breast cancer may be symptomless in its early stages. Regular checkups are important for early detection as symptoms such as lumps or changes in the appearance of the breast may develop only in the later stages.

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