12 Myths & Facts About Breast Cancer That Everyone Should Know — Including Men

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Fact: While breast cancer is far more common in women, men can also develop it. Although rare, male breast cancer accounts for about 1% of all breast cancer cases. Men should also pay attention to any unusual changes in their chest area and consult a doctor if they notice anything suspicious.

Things to look out for include:

• Lumps
• Thickening of skin
• Unusual changes in your breast or chest
• Dimpling of the skin
• Nipple discharge (especially if it's bloody)
• An inverted nipple
• Redness
• Swelling
• Changes in size or shape

Even if these symptoms aren't painful, they can signal an issue that needs further investigation. Early detection can make a significant difference, so it's always better to get any unusual changes checked out promptly.

Fact: Not every lump in the breast is cancerous. Many lumps are benign, meaning they are not cancer. Not all benign lumps need to be removed. Many benign lumps, such as cysts or fibroadenomas, can be monitored without surgery if they aren't causing discomfort, growing, or showing suspicious changes.

However, any lump or change in your breast should always be checked by a healthcare professional to be sure.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence linking bras, underwire or otherwise, to breast cancer. This myth may have started because some people believed that tight bras could restrict lymphatic drainage, but experts agree that this is not the case. Wearing a bra does not increase your risk of breast cancer.

Fact: Most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. While having a family history can increase your risk, it's not the only factor. Lifestyle, environment, and genetics all play a role, so it's important to be vigilant about breast health even if your family is cancer-free.

Fact: Breast cancer can affect women at any age, although it's more common in older women. Young women under 40 can still develop the disease, though it's less frequent. Being young does not guarantee immunity, so it's essential for all women to be aware of their bodies and report any changes.

It's recommended to do a self-breast examination once a month. The best time for women to check their breasts is a few days after their period ends, when the breasts are less tender and swollen.

Regular self-exams help you become familiar with how your breasts normally feel, making it easier to notice any unusual changes. While self-exams aren't a replacement for medical screenings, they are a helpful way to monitor your breast health.

Fact: In its early stages, breast cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular screening and self-checks are so important. Mammograms can detect cancer early, often before any symptoms develop. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment.

Fact: The idea that antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer has been widely debunked. There is no substantial research linking the use of antiperspirants or deodorants to breast cancer. It's safe to use these products without fear of increasing your risk.

Fact: While leading a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk, it does not guarantee that you won't get breast cancer. Eating well, exercising, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can lower your chances, but they cannot eliminate the risk entirely. Breast cancer can still occur due to other factors, including age and genetics.

Fact: Breast cancer is not a death sentence. Thanks to advancements in treatment and early detection, many people survive breast cancer. The earlier it's caught, the better the chances of successful treatment. Regular screenings and check-ups are key to catching cancer early.

Fact: While lumps are a common symptom, breast cancer doesn't always present as a lump. Other signs, like nipple changes, skin dimpling, swelling, or discharge, can also indicate breast cancer. Some early cancers may not cause noticeable symptoms at all, which is why regular screening is important.

Fact: While breastfeeding may slightly lower your risk of developing breast cancer, it does not provide full protection. Many factors contribute to breast cancer risk, and while breastfeeding has health benefits for both mother and baby, it is not a guarantee against cancer.

Fact: Breast size has no impact on the risk of breast cancer. People with all breast sizes can develop breast cancer, as it's the breast tissue itself, not the size, that matters. Regular checks and screenings are important for everyone, regardless of breast size.

The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a healthcare professional regarding the reader’s own medical care.