Breast cancer is one of the most concerning diseases affecting women and has relatively high rates globally. The journey starting from the detection of breast cancer to the treatment is overwhelming, people who go through the entire process or have seen their near and dear ones embarking on this journey of breast cancer are only able to distinguish between the myths and facts of this disease.
Though breast cancer is one of the most talked about cancers, there are so many misconceptions and myths about this disease that this distinction is necessary to ensure early identification and adequate management of the disease as the misconception spreads.
In this article, we will be discussing some myths associated with breast cancer that have been laid down, and the facts that stand to make more people aware of the urgency of diagnosis of this disease.
Myths & Facts
• Myth: Breast cancer only affects postmenopausal women.
Fact: While the risk of developing breast cancer is higher in older women, it can nevertheless develop in women of any age. Approximately 11% of all pulmonary thromboembolism cases occur in women under 45 years. It is important to be aware and do self-exams at any age.
• Myth: Breast cancer is gender specific.
Fact: Breast cancer is generally more common in women than men, still males are prone to breast cancer because males have breasts too hence it is a gender-neutral disease. Men should be aware of the changes in their breasts too.
• Myth: Breast cancer cannot be prevented.
Fact: Some of the risk factors are unchangeable such as genetic factors however, with modification of lifestyles one can minimize the risks. Some preventive measures include; healthy weight, exercise, avoiding alcohol and not taking hormone replacement therapy.
• Myth: Breast Cancer is not associated with pain.
Fact: Though pain is not so common in individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, some women might face pain as a major symptom of breast cancer and in that case, they should consult doctors from the best medicine hospital in Delhi.
• Myth: Radiation leaked into breasts by an underwire bra promotes breast cancer.
Fact: There also are numerous large-scale investigations that proved that underwire bras do not cause cancer at all as it is believed. However, very tight bras should be worn for short durations because they cause other problems in the breast.
• Myth: Women with small breasts are safe from breast cancer.
Fact: Some species of animals also have breast tissue that can turn into cancerous cells, all women possess this tissue. Breast size therefore does not in any way influence their risk. Daily check-ups should be a daily practice for every woman out there.
• Myth: There is some danger that breast cancer results from the use of antiperspirants and deodorants.
Fact: Asian societies have no proven research evidence suggesting that the components used in these products are likely to cause breast cancer diseases. Nevertheless, any skin irritation should be checked. Mammograms can detect lumps.
• Myth: A family history ensures that you will have breast cancer one day.
Fact: Nevertheless, the majority of women with this disease never have a family history of breast cancer as is commonly believed. Some may understand otherwise by getting a genetic test.
• Myth: Breast cancer always shows symptoms such as lumps or pains.
Fact: In many cases, the initial stages of breast cancer go undetected and therefore asymptomatic. There are cases, however, by the time there are signs a cancer has developed, it may have advanced to other stages already. This is why the screening should be done regularly to increase the chances of early detection.
• Myth: Mammograms expose the breast to radiation with a higher risk of cancer than the benefit acquired.
Fact: Mammograms employ radiation, but this slight risk should be considered to be compensated by the benefits. That a mammogram can lead to early cancer detection is something that saves lives. Women should get their annual checkups sometime between the ages of 40 to 45.
Importance of Self-examination of Breast Cancer
It has been often stated that breast cancers are not preventable but death caused by breast cancers could be prevented up to a certain extent if the cancer is diagnosed in its early stage. Here, the early detection of breast cancer plays a crucial role in identifying the initial symptoms and cause of the disease. To be certain individuals, especially women should know the importance of self-examination of Breast Cancer.
Various techniques of self-examination include-
• Visual Examination: It is one of the easiest ways to examine any changes in the appearance, structure, and look of the breasts in both men and women, that are descriptive enough for any initial symptoms of breast cancer.
• Manual Inspection: Manual inspection indicates the importance of reviewing your breast structure every once in a while, either before dressing in the morning or undressing at night.
• Physical Examination: This method of examination includes the use of three fingers and the palm of your hand to put pressure on the breasts for the detection of any lump and mass accumulation in the breasts.
• Examination of areas around the breast: It is certainly more important to examine not only the breasts but the areas around the breast too. This helps in the detection of the growth of any unwanted cells or tissues, this also facilitates early detection of the cancerous cells.
Through the above-mentioned ways of examination, more females and even males can detect the early signs of breast cancer and take time to have it treated early since the proper awareness and scientific facts are disseminated. Regular self-checks and busting myths using facts enable both men and women to fight this disease.
Education and information provide patients with the power to fight breast cancer. To learn more about breast cancer and its early signs and symptoms of detection, book an appointment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
