It’s that time of year again, Breast Cancer Awareness Month -a good time to get your tatas checked! This October, we’re going to shine a spotlight on the most common myths surrounding this disease – and debunk them.
Myth # 1 Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer.
Truth: Researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other expert organizations have not stated any conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants and the subsequent development of breast cancer.
Myth # 2 Men do not get breast cancer; it affects women only.
Truth: Each year, nearly 3,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 500 will die from it. While these numbers are relatively small, they are still significant, making it important that men check themselves periodically by doing a breast self-exam while in the shower and reporting any changes to their physicians. Breast cancer in men is usually detected as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola.
Myth # 3 Discovering a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer.
Truth: Only a small percentage of breast lumps turn out to be cancer. But if you find a persistent lump in your breast or notice any changes in breast tissue, you should definitely see a physician for a clinical breast exam. And remember, many experts, including quite possibly your physician, agree that a clinical breast exam is not always sufficient and will advise additional tests, such as a mammogram, MRI, or biopsy.
Myth # 4 A mammogram can cause breast cancer to spread.
Truth: A mammogram, or x-ray of the breast, currently remains the premier way for early detection of breast cancer. And breast compression while getting a mammogram cannot cause cancer to spread. According to numerous experts at leading organizations, including the National Institute of Health, the National Cancer Institute, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the benefits of early detection of breast cancer through mammography nearly always outweigh any possible harm from radiation. The standard recommendation is an annual mammographic screening for women beginning at age 40. As you get older, it may decrease—but a lot has to do with your personal history and your family’s history with regards to breast cancer, so it’s imperative that you base your decision on your physician’s informed recommendation; they will help you determine whether you are at average risk or above average risk for breast cancer and act accordingly.
Below are mammogram guidelines from the American Cancer Society for women considered at average risk for breast cancer:
- Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
- Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.
- All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do.
For women who are considered at high risk for breast cancer, the American Cancer Society (ACS) advises that they get a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, typically starting at age 30. According to the ACS, women at high risk includes those who:
- Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of about 20% to 25% or greater, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history.
- Have a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation (based on having had genetic testing).
- Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, and have not had genetic testing themselves.
- Had radiation therapy to the chest before they were 30 years old.
- Have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have first-degree relatives with one of these syndromes.
Myth # 5 Drinking milk (or dairy) causes breast cancer.
- Truth: Several myths continue to circulate about the relationship between dairy consumption and the increased risk of breast cancer. Most studies have shown, however, that dairy intake does not increase the risk of breast cancer. Having said that, a Nurses’ Health Study from 1980-2018 (as reported on the American Cancer Society website) found that women who reported drinking between 14 and 21 servings of milk per week as teens had a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. But women who reported eating more cheese during adulthood had a slightly lower risk of breast cancer.
Also, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “a recent study (2020) suggests drinking dairy milk increases the risk of breast cancer. The link was clearest with milk calorie intake, with a 50 percent increased risk of women among the top 10 percent of milk drinkers compared to those among the bottom 10 percent. Risk was similar for both full-fat and low-fat versions and pre-menopausal and post-menopausal cases.”
Evidently, more studies need to be done to clarify this myth.
This information is for educational purposes. Please consult your physician regarding any medical issues. The Visiting Nurse Association of the Treasure Coast (VNA) is committed to bringing trusted and quality home health, private care and hospice to Indian River County patients. For more information about VNA services, call 772-567-5551 or visit www.vnatc.com.
