Breast cancer advice, especially online, is full of half-truths and outdated claims. From the idea that only women with a family history are at risk, to fears about deodorants and underwire bras, misinformation spreads fast. These myths can lead to confusion, fear, and delays in screening.
In this article, we break down 7 common myths about breast cancer and what science really says – so you can protect your health and make informed decisions.
Myth 1. Only people with a family history get breast cancer
A family history of breast cancer can increase the likelihood of an individual developing breast cancer. Women with a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) who has received a breast cancer diagnosis are at a higher risk of breast cancer1.
However, only 5-10 percent of breast cancers are caused by an inherited gene, and so the majority of breast cancers occur in people with no family history2. There are several risk factors for breast cancer, of which family history is just one of many.
Breast cancer can occur in anyone, making breast cancer screening an essential part of your health management, regardless of your family history.
Myth 2. You’re too young to worry about breast cancer
The likelihood of developing breast cancer increases with age; however, younger women can still develop it. Approximately 20 percent of cases occur in women aged under 50, and 4 percent in women aged under 403. While remaining low, the rates of breast cancer in women under 40 are rising4. In addition, it is thought that women under 40 have an increased risk of developing a more aggressive cancer5.
Therefore, breast cancer awareness is essential for people of all ages, particularly those with known risk factors or those who have developed concerning symptoms.
Myth 3. Wearing underwire bras or using deodorant causes breast cancer
Despite the widespread rumours, there is no scientific evidence that wearing underwire bras or using deodorants can cause breast cancer6,7.
Real risk factors include1:
- Alcohol – An increase in the amount of alcohol drunk increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Smoking – Women who smoke are at a higher risk of breast cancer.
- Being overweight or obese – Women who are overweight after they have gone through menopause are at a greater risk of breast cancer.
- Using the contraceptive pill – Taking the contraceptive pill has a very small effect on increasing the risk of breast cancer. The risk goes back to normal within 10 years of stopping use.
- Age – Breast cancer risk increases with age.
- Family history – Having a close family member diagnosed with breast cancer increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Radiation exposure – Repeated X-rays or CT scans increase the risk of breast cancer; however, the benefits often outweigh the risk.
- Diabetes – Women with diabetes are at a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.
- Dense breast tissue – Women with dense breast tissue (less fat and more breast cells) have a higher risk of breast cancer.
Myth 4. A lump is the only sign of breast cancer
A lump is a common sign of breast cancer; however, many breast cancers do not start with a lump. Other common early signs of cancer include8:
- Dimpled or reddened skin on the breast.
- A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts.
- Nipple discharge, potentially containing blood.
- A change in the nipple, such as it inverting or a rash.
- Pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away.
The earliest stages of breast cancer may not cause any symptoms, emphasising the importance of imaging (such as mammograms or MRIs) for the earliest detection of breast cancer.
Myth 5. Mammograms are only needed if you have symptoms
Mammograms are the key screening method for detecting breast cancer. Cancer screening is used to detect cancer at the earliest possible stage, which is often when symptoms have yet to develop9. Attending regular breast cancer screening can increase the chances of detecting cancer at its earliest stages, when it is easiest to treat.
High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of breast cancer or with dense breasts, could benefit from MRI screening as opposed to standard mammograms10.
Myth 6. Breast cancer always forms a visible lump or pain
While a lump and/or pain are common symptoms of breast cancer, they are not always present, especially at the earliest stages of cancer. Breast cancer can be symptom-free, or can involve symptoms other than a lump or pain11. In addition, lumps may not be visible on the breast, but may be deeper in the breast tissue. To identify these lumps, it is important to carry out frequent breast exams and know what your normal feels like.
Due to the symptom-free nature of many breast cancers, breast cancer screening is essential to identifying cancer and to detecting any abnormalities as early as possible.
Myth 7. Men can’t get breast cancer
Men have breast tissue and can therefore develop breast cancer. Breast cancer is rare in men, with male breast cancer making up less than 1 percent of the total breast cancer cases in the UK12. Risk factors include:
- Age
- Exposure to radiation
- Family history
- High oestrogen levels
The symptoms are similar to breast cancer in women, including12:
- A lump in the breast
- Nipple discharge
- Swelling of the breast
- A rash around or on the nipple
- An inverted nipple
Breast cancer can occur in anyone, making it essential that men are also educated on the potential signs of breast cancer.
Conclusion
Myths about breast cancer can lead to fear, stigma, or worse – delayed diagnosis. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, and early detection saves lives. Whether you have a family history or not, are young or older, woman or man, it’s important to understand your risk and act on it.
If you want to be proactive about your health, Ezra offers advanced MRI services designed to detect abnormalities early. They’re safe, fast, and non-invasive. Learn your risk or book your scan today.
