Breast cancer continues to be one of the most common and dangerous types of malignant tumors throughout the world. However, there are many myths surrounding this disease, which, fortunately, are not supported by scientific data.
Myth 1: Wearing an underwire bra increases your risk of breast cancer
Reality: Neither the material nor the shape of underwear, including underwire options, is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Scientific studies have not found any direct connection between these factors.
Myth 2: Finding lumps in the breast necessarily indicates breast cancer
Reality: Breast lumps can have a variety of causes, including benign lesions, and are not necessarily cancer-related. For an accurate diagnosis, additional examinations are necessary. Visit a doctor, get a breast ultrasound or mammogram for prevention.
It is recommended to do an ultrasound every year until the age of 35-40, after 35-40 – mammography every 2 years, after 50 years – annual mammography.
Myth 3: Plastic surgery increases the risk of developing breast cancer
Reality: Getting implants does not increase your chance of developing breast cancer, but it may make it harder for mammograms to detect tumors. It is important to carry out diagnostic procedures correctly and warn the doctor about the presence of implants.
Myth 4: Breast size affects the risk of developing breast cancer
Reality: Breast size is not a determining factor in the risk of developing breast cancer. The size and likelihood of cancer are absolutely unrelated. However, women with large breasts may be more difficult to test, meaning that if a tumor occurs, it may be noticed later.
Myth 5: Hormonal treatments for infertility (such as IVF) increase the risk of breast cancer
Reality: Scientific studies have not confirmed a direct link between hormonal medications used to treat infertility and the development of breast cancer.
Myth 6: Breast cancer is an exclusively female disease
Reality: Every year, breast cancer is diagnosed in men, and the mortality rate from this disease is higher among them, which is associated with late seeking medical help, because it does not even occur to men that such cancer is possible. It is important to highlight this aspect for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
