Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, yet there is still a great deal of misinformation surrounding it. Myths about breast cancer can create confusion, fear, and even prevent people from taking necessary preventive measures. Here, we debunk some of the most widespread myths about breast cancer using real facts, data, and scientific evidence.
Myth 1: Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk.
Fact: While family history can increase the risk of breast cancer, the majority of people diagnosed with the disease have no family history at all.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of the disease. These cases are typically due to genetic mutations that occur as a result of the aging process and other risk factors rather than inherited mutations. In fact, only 5-10% of breast cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Takeaway: Everyone is at risk for breast cancer, not just those with a family history. Regular screenings and self-examinations are crucial for early detection.
Myth 2: Breast cancer only affects older women.
Fact: While the risk of breast cancer increases with age, younger women are not immune.
Breast cancer can occur in women of all ages. Although the majority of cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, approximately 5% of breast cancers are diagnosed in women under 40. Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer often face more aggressive forms of the disease, such as Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC).
Moreover, Black women under the age of 40 are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer compared to white women, and they tend to have more aggressive tumors, contributing to a higher mortality rate in younger women of color.
Takeaway: Breast cancer can affect women of all ages. Young women should be aware of their breast health, perform self-exams regularly, and seek medical attention if they notice any abnormalities.
Myth 3: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer.
Fact: Not all breast lumps are cancerous.
In fact, the vast majority of breast lumps—about 80%—are benign (non-cancerous). Conditions such as cysts, fibroadenomas, and other benign breast conditions can cause lumps that are not related to cancer. However, it’s essential to get any lump checked by a healthcare professional, as early detection is key in treating breast cancer.
Takeaway: A lump doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, but it’s important to have any unusual breast changes evaluated by a doctor to ensure your health.
Myth 4: Men cannot get breast cancer.
Fact: Men can and do get breast cancer, though it is less common.
Breast cancer in men is rare, but it does happen. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 833 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. While men have a much lower risk compared to women, they often overlook the warning signs, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and more advanced cancer.
Risk factors for men include family history, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), and exposure to radiation. Men should be aware of breast cancer symptoms like lumps, changes in the nipple, or skin changes, and seek medical advice if any of these symptoms arise.
Takeaway: Men are also at risk for breast cancer, and they should be aware of the signs and symptoms to ensure early detection.
Myth 5: Wearing a bra, especially underwire bras, can cause breast cancer.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence linking bras to breast cancer.
This myth likely stems from the belief that underwire bras restrict lymphatic drainage, leading to the buildup of toxins in breast tissue. However, studies have consistently shown no connection between wearing bras—whether underwire or not—and breast cancer risk.
A large study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found no association between wearing a bra and an increased risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Other studies have reached the same conclusion: bras do not cause breast cancer.
Takeaway: The type of bra you wear does not increase or decrease your risk of breast cancer.
Myth 6: Breast cancer always causes a lump you can feel.
Fact: Not all breast cancers cause lumps, and some cancers may not be detectable through touch.
Breast cancer can present itself in many ways. While lumps are a common symptom, some breast cancers cause changes that are more subtle, such as thickening of the breast tissue, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in breast size or shape. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), for example, often presents without a lump and is more likely to cause redness, swelling, or an orange-peel texture of the skin.
This is why mammograms and other imaging tests are so important—they can detect cancer that may not be felt during a physical exam. The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women aged 40 and older, but you should consult your healthcare provider about when you should start screenings.
Takeaway: Breast cancer doesn’t always cause a noticeable lump, so it’s important to have regular screenings and be aware of other changes in your breast tissue.
Myth 7: If you have a healthy lifestyle, you won’t get breast cancer.
Fact: A healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk, but it does not eliminate it entirely.
While maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising, limiting alcohol, and not smoking can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, they do not completely prevent it. Breast cancer can occur in people with no known risk factors and those who lead healthy lifestyles.
It’s important to understand that while you can control certain risk factors, like lifestyle, there are others you cannot control, such as age, genetics, and family history.
Takeaway: Healthy habits can reduce your risk of breast cancer but don’t guarantee prevention. Regular screenings and awareness of changes in your body are still crucial.
