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Breast Cancer Myths Can Hurt You

Breast cancer is a disease surrounded by a lot of knowledge; however, there is still much to learn about breast cancer and what exactly causes women to be  at risk. According to recent online article there are common myths that are not only untrue but can be costly to a woman’s breast health. According to the article these include the belief that breast cancer is largely genetic. The truth is it is unknown exactly what causes breast cancer. Family history is a factor but is not the only factor. Another myth is that small chested women have a lower risk. While having any amount of breast tissue is a risk of breast cancer, women with small chest can develop breast cancer. Breast cancer can be present in the lymph nodes, the underarm, and other areas where breast tissue does not necessarily make up the size of a woman’s breast. Breast cancer always appears as a lump -is another widely held misbelief. Breast cancer can be present when there is no lump that can be seen or felt. Do not believe that mammograms prevent or reduce your risk of breast cancer. Mammograms are screening tool to detect abnormalities in the breast. They are not meant to prevent or reduce the risk of breast cancer as a standalone action; this applies to the same myth that breast cancer is caused by mammograms. Birth control pills cause breast cancer. This has been a belief held by many for a long time. While the risk of breast cancer is listed as a risk for women to consider when choosing birth control pills there is no conclusive direct link that taking birth-control pills will give a woman breast cancer. The belief that young women do not get breast cancer can be dangerous to woman’s health. While it is not as common for young women to have breast cancer it is certainly possible. Deodorant and antiperspirants have also been part of the belief of many that they are the source of breast cancer. Once again there’s been no conclusive evidence to link antiperspirants or deodorants to breast cancer. Wearing a bra or drinking from a plastic water bottle left in a hot car, are two widely held beliefs that are rooted in misinformation, and not rooted in evidence based on scientific facts. Women should not believe that because they had a normal mammogram that they needn’t worry about breast cancer. Monthly self-breast exams should be done around the same time each month to be certain there are no abnormalities in the breast. Dr. Seify is committed to helping his patients understand the importance of breast health. Cosmetic surgery patients who have had breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift are advised to follow the recommendations of their primary care physician regarding routine mammograms and breast self-exams.