You would have probably heard at least a few myths about the causes of breast cancer or what increases the risks of it.  A little myth-busting here can help you get your facts straight.

#1  If you have a Family History, you are prone to get cancer
Sometimes women who don’t have a family history of breast cancer are surprised when they get breast cancer.  A family history is one of the many risk factors. But a risk factor is not a cause for cancer, rather an indication that you should be on the lookout. Other risk factors for breast cancer include ageing, late pregnancy, unhealthy/sedentary lifestyle or consuming alcohol.

 

#2  Breast Cancer Occurs Only in Older Women
Increasing age is a risk factor for breast cancer, so the older you are the more likely you are to get breast cancer, but however, that doesn’t mean younger women aren’t vulnerable. Breast cancer can be diagnosed at any age. Experts say that it tends to be more aggressive in younger women.

 

#3  Self exams aren’t necessary

There’s no downside to doing self exams – it’s cheap and easy to do. It’s all about being familiar with the shape of your own breasts, so you can be aware of any abnormalities at the earliest.

 

#4  Abortion and Miscarriage Increases your Risk of getting Breast Cancer

Though it is proven that having children before the age of 30 can reduce the risk of breast cancer, there is no research to support the idea that  miscarriage or abortion could increase breast cancer risk.

 

#5  Radiation From Screening Tests Causes Cancer

Although mammograms do give off a small amount of radiation, the radiation dose in a mammogram is less than in a standard chest X-ray. It is such a low level that it will not increase your risk of getting breast cancer.  Women should also know that MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) and ultrasounds, which may also be used to screen for breast cancer in some women, contain no radiation at all.

 

Armed with these facts — not myths — we hope you’re better able to reduce your risk and plan your treatment if you develop breast cancer. So, be on the lookout and stay healthy!

References:
https://www.chistlukeshealth.org/resources/5-breast-cancer-myths-debunked