Breast Cancer: Separating Fact from Fiction

In the US, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women, the first being skin cancer. It is also the second leading cause of death in women in America. Statistics indicate that about 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime, with an estimated 230,480 new cases seen in 2011 alone. In the same year, more than 39, 000 women were expected to succumb to this medical condition and die. 

As it is with everything else, the topic of breast cancer is surrounded by several myths. These often prevent people from gaining a complete understanding of this medical condition, clouding their judgment with “facts” that have no scientific backing whatsoever. Some of these more prevalent misconceptions have been looked at this article with the aim of separating fact from fiction. 

Breast Cancer is a Condition Associated only with Women 

For obvious reasons, when one thinks of breast cancer, the mind immediately associates it with women. However, men, too, can have breast cancer. In fact, each year, more than 2,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer, of which nearly 450 cases prove to be fatal. 

Believing breast cancer only affects women puts men at a disadvantage. In an overwhelming number of cases, they ignore the lumps in the breast until the cancer reaches a stage where it is no longer treatable. For this reason, it’s important to promote awareness of this condition among women as well as men. 

Lumps are the Only Indicators of Breast Cancer 

In addition to lumps, there are several other signs that indicate towards the possibility of breast cancer. These include the following: 

·         Change in the appearance or feel of breast/nipple

·         Tenderness in nipples

·         Pain in the breast

·         Nipple discharge

·         Red, swollen, dimpled or scaly skin of the breast

·         Nipple turning inward

·         Breasts feeling unusually warm to the touch 

If one or more of these signs are noticed, it’s important to consult the doctor without any further delay. 

Underwire Bras Put you at Higher Risk of Breast Cancer 

Not very long ago it was believed that underwire bras were responsible for causing breast cancer. The reasoning was that they compressed the breast’s lymphatic system, causing an accumulation of toxins, which in turn lead to breast cancer. However, this myth has been debunked for being unscientific. The medical fraternity has been quick to point out that the shape, make or tightness of the bra has nothing to do with breast cancer risk. 

Breast Implants Can Lead to Breast Cancer 

Yet another myth that has no foundation in science whatsoever! Women with breast implants have nothing to fear since research has proved that they are at no risk of getting cancer as a result of their cosmetic enhancement. However, it is worth remembering that standard mammograms aren’t as successful at detecting abnormalities when there are implants in the breast. For this reason, additional X-rays are recommended for a more complete and thorough examination. 

Is your breast cancer information based on fact or fiction? The osteoporosis drug Evista may be used to help cut breast cancer risk in high-risk postmenopausal women.