There are many misconceptions about breast cancer from who it impacts to how it develops.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Channel 9 fact checked nine common breast cancer myths according to national experts.
See the myths and the correct information below:
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Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer
Fact: According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, only a small percentage of breast lumps turn out to be cancer. “But if you discover a persistent lump in your breast or notice any changes in breast tissue, it should never be ignored,” the organizations said. They advise that you make an appointment with your physician for a breast exam just in case.
Myth: Wearing a bra causes breast cancer
Fact: According to Susan G. Komen, scientific evidence does not support a link between wearing an underwire bra (or any type of bra) and breast cancer risk. They said there is no biological reason why the two would be linked.
Myth: Men do not get breast cancer; it affects women only
Fact: The National Breast Cancer Foundations says that each year approximately 2,190 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 410 will die. “While this percentage is still small, men should also check themselves periodically by doing a breast self-exam while in the shower and reporting any changes to their physicians,” the organizations says.
Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer
Fact: According to researchers at the National Cancer Institute, they are not aware of any conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants and the subsequent development of breast cancer.
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Myth: Injury or trauma to the breast, like getting hit in the breast, can cause breast cancer
Fact: The Susan G. Komen Foundation said is there is no evidence to support a link between trauma or injury to the breast and the risk of breast cancer.
Myth: Breast cancer is contagious
Fact: The National Breast Cancer Foundations says that you cannot catch breast cancer or transfer it to someone else’s body. “Breast cancer is the result of uncontrolled cell growth of mutated cells that begin to spread into other tissues within the breast,” the organization said.
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Myth: Putting a cell phone in your bra can cause breast cancer
Fact: The Susan G. Komen Foundation said studies have found no increase in the risk of breast cancer or other types of cancer from cell phone use.
Myth: If you have a family history of breast cancer, you are likely to develop breast cancer, too
Fact: While women who have a family history of breast cancer are in a higher risk group, the National Breast Cancer Foundation says that most women who have breast cancer have no family history. Statistically, they said, only about 10% of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease.
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Myth: If I eat right, don’t smoke, exercise and don’t drink alcohol I won’t get breast cancer
Fact: A person can do everything “right” and still get breast cancer, according to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
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