Breast Cancer Myths Debunked!

How many times have you heard that wearing a bra for too long can cause breast cancer? Or applying deodorant can cause lumps in the breast, thus resulting in cancer? Breast cancer - these two words are enough to instill anxiety and presumptions in the minds of almost everyone. According to Dr Chaitanayanand Koppiker, breast surgeon Pune, approximately 1 in 22 Indian women carry a lifetime risk of developing the disease. (this is according to general statistics and not according to Dr. Koppiker). This sentence is not factual. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in India. Lack of awareness, illiteracy, social stigma has led to a lot of misconceptions about breast cancer.Often, people turn to the internet to find solutions, symptoms and diagnosis of breast cancer but usually find themselves caught up in the vast web of myths and misapprehensions. Unless someone experiences this deadly disease in their own lives or witnesses someone close suffering with it, they may find it challenging to differentiate misbeliefs from facts. Let's look at some of the myths that have revolved around breast cancer since a very long time- Myth #1- People with no family history of breast cancer do not carry the risk of the disease. Fact- One of the most common myths around breast cancer is that it is an inherited disease. However, only about 5-10% percent of breast cancers are believed to be hereditary. Contrary to what people believe, the vast majority of breast cancer cases have no family history and are affected by this disease due to factors such as environment or lifestyle. But, this does not mean that people with a strong family history of breast cancer can overlook the concern. Myth #2- Wearing underwire bras cause breast cancer. Fact- Time and again, the media and the internet have fueled the misbeliefs that wearing an underwire bra can increase the chances of breast cancer. It is believed that underwire bras may restrain the flow of lymph fluid in the breast, causing toxins to infect the area. However, there is no scientific proof to support this myth. Myth #3- Using underarm deodorants can cause breast cancer. Fact- There have been unremitting rumours that underarm antiperspirants containing aluminium and other chemicals increase the chances of breast cancer. The chemicals used in these deodorants are believed to be absorbed by the lymph nodes and make their way to breast cells, causing breast cancer. But, there is no proven evidence of a connection between antiperspirants and breast cancer. However, the safety of antiperspirants and deodorants is still being studied. Along with the aforementioned myths, there are some misconceptions like- cell phones, consumption of alcohol, working in night shifts, breast injury and much more can increase the chances of breast cancer. If you or someone you know experiences any symptoms of breast cancer, it is advisable to consult the best breast surgeon in Pune or other cities. Early detection of breast cancer can help reduce cancer from spreading to other parts of the body, and your doctor may be able to start off the treatments on time.