False Facts About Breast Cancer

October is breast cancer awareness month, the month of pink ribbons and silly breast jokes all in the name of awareness. With each October comes the realization that a lot of people are still very misinformed about breast cancer. So I’ve decided to talk about some of the alternative facts I’ve been seeing and hopefully help spread awareness.

1. Only Women Get Breast Cancer

Although the cases are not as common as women’s, men do get breast cancer. In the USA alo 1 in 1000 men are at risk of getting breast cancer. Since aware campaigns are mostly geared towards women early detection in men is low.

It’s important for everyone to be aware of their body, do routine checks and report to their doctor when any abnormalities are felt. So start checking guys!

2. Lumps Mean Cancer

Not all lumps mean cancer! In fact, only a small percentage translate to cancer. So when you feel anything out of the ordinary monitor it regularly and go see your doctor. Lots of lumps like mine go on their own, others although benign may need to be surgically removed.

Two years ago I was having pain on one side of my breast, I could feel a bump, when it was still there a week later I went to my doctor and I got a mammogram. When the scan cleared me they gave me the silliest plausible reason and sent me on my way. I didn’t care though as long as I didn't have to worry about cancer. Last week I got a professional screening and felt a lump, I’ll go this week to a doctor for more thorough checks but I’m not panicking because it could be a plethora of things.

3. Breastcancer is a Middle-aged Disease

This false narrative was marketed to us that only women in their 50’s and above get cancer. They typically only start giving regular mammograms when you are 40 years or older. But cancer has no age restrictions. There are several cases recently of women in their 20’s-30’s

4. Deodorant Causes Cancer

A report came out that spred like wildfire. No evidence has backed this statement. Natural deodorants are always better and you can eliminate the use of deodorants with the lime method but it is a bit of a process before you become fully scent free.

5. It’s Mostly Hereditary

Only 5-10% of cases had family history. You shouldn’t be cautious or check regularly only if you have relatives with a cancer history, everyone is at risk so take the few seconds to check. Make it part of your morning or nighttime routine to just touch your body in the shower to know your body thoroughly. Then once a month do a full check laying down. Make it fun, let your partner help you daily.

Remember, early detection is key.