Cancer Myths
Cancer Myths
Myth 1: Breast cancer is a contagious disease.
Fact: Breast cancer is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Breast cancer is the result of uncontrolled cell growth in the body.
Myth 2: Men do not get breast cancer.
Fact: Although the rate of breast cancer diagnosis in men is low, men should perform monthly self-examinations and report any changes to their doctors.
Myth 3: Having a family history of breast cancer means you will also develop breast cancer.
Fact: Although women with a family history of breast cancer are considered to be at higher risk, most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. If your mother, sister, or grandmother has had breast cancer, you should have a mammogram starting five years earlier than the age at which they were diagnosed.
Myth 4: Finding a lump in the breast means you have breast cancer.
Fact: Eight out of ten breast lumps are not cancerous. If you feel a persistent lump or notice any changes in your breast, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Many women avoid regular health check-ups due to fear, and sometimes they delay treatment because they are afraid of what they might face. Take care of your health through monthly self-examinations, regular doctor visits, and routine mammography screenings.
The image above shows some common, non-cancerous breast conditions. Although they may appear as lumps, they usually do not cause concern. However, your doctor can diagnose and treat these conditions. If you notice anything abnormal during your monthly self-examination, consult a doctor immediately. Early detection is always the best form of protection.
Myth 5: You can prevent breast cancer by modifying the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Fact: It is estimated that 5%–10% of women with breast cancer carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes genetically. Mutations in these genes in both women and men can lead to breast cancer. If you are a carrier of these genes, you should be closely monitored by your doctor. Carriers of these genes have a lifelong increased risk of developing breast cancer.