Thinking pink and finding truth: Debunking common breast cancer myths
Since 1-in-8 women will develop breast cancer over their lifetime, it’s time to shed light on the gossip that surrounds this disease.
Rumor: Antiperspirants are linked to breast cancer
Fact: Despite several reports that the aluminum found in antiperspirants could cause calcification of breast tissue (which in turn could become cancerous), the Food and Drug Administration said, “[The agency finds] these theories lack sufficient evidence.” It is recommended, however, that you use more natural antiperspirants for wellness reasons.
Rumor: Underwire bras do nothing but harm
Fact: Underwire bras can do one of two things: Raise the masses (nudge, nudge) or can cause discomfort when they are too worn or damaged. There is no evidence that links breast support (like a bra) with breast cancer. Case closed.
Rumor: Breast pain and lumps are warning signs
Fact: Breast pain among women is considered normal, especially during one’s menstrual cycle. Only 2% of diagnosed breast cancer patients had breast pain as a symptom. However, such symptoms as nipple discharge, redness, rash or discoloration, or dimpling, are not. Additionally, breast lumps can be normal, but tugging of tissue is not. If you experience any of these issues, contact your doctor.
Rumor: Family history guarantees you will be diagnosed as well
Fact: This is a tricky one. While most women (70% to 80%) that are diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history, it is important to note, however, that women in certain demographics (particularly those of Jewish descent) may carry a genetic mutation* known as BRCA1 (pronounced “br-ACK-uh”) or BRCA2, that could leave them predisposed to developing breast cancer (*If you are concerned about this, ask your doctor about genetic testing).
Rumor: OK to wait… on mammograms
Fact: According to the National Cancer Institute, women ages 40 years and older should get a mammogram (an X-ray that can help diagnose breast cancer) every 1 to 2 years and should be part of a routine health plan, as well as self-exams, which should be conducted once a month, so women know what to look for.
Rumor: Men and breast cancer? Pssh. That’s a woman thing!
Fact: No. According to BreastCancer.org, in 2010, about 1,970 new cases of invasive breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed; less than 1% of all new breast cancer cases were men.
For more information on breast cancer, visit BreastCancer.org and Cancer.gov.
Tags: breast cancer, fact, myth, Vitals, women's health
Live it HellaWella. Sign up for our email.
Newsletters
| Trending |
© 2011-2012 HellaWella.com
Both crystal style deodorants and antiperspirants both contain forms of aluminum and both are considered Drugs under the FDA. A quick thermography would demonstrate the buildup of salts in the axilla(underarm)that can lead to disturbances in the breast tissue. There exist only Cosmetic Claims and are valueless to Scientist.
Just wondering if the NCI has taken stats to show cancer patients #’s < 40 years of age before there was a criteria for woman Age 40 to be included. As for the Underwire bras, has there been any study that would provide evidence for or against.
The FDA says the Antiperspirant theory lacks sufficient evidence – ha ha, what that really means is the Antiperspirant companies are not lacking in lobbyist. FDA is just another corrupt government run institution, don’t believe a word they say. Ever notices how many time in your life the FDA reports a drug to be unsafe when it previously approved it? Ever researched their “scientific studies” to see who is funding them?
Hi Alisha,
Thanks for your comment. NCI has said that more women are at greater risk of developing breast cancer as they age and it is more uncommon for women to develop breast cancer under 40 years old. Unfortunately, that’s to not say it’s impossible. NCI also noted that “recent studies have not shown a benefit from regular screening mammography in women under 40 years old or from baseline screening mammograms (mammograms used for comparison) taken before 40 years.”
As for the underwire bras, there was a rumor that circulated among the medical world that underwire bras (which typically are worn tight and hug the body) could cause irritation or inflammation to the breast tissue (what tight bra wouldn’t?). It could be misinterpreted as an issue, so it’s always a good idea to do self-checks and consult your doctor.
[...] Debunking Common Breast Cancer Myths –Since 1-in-8 women will develop breast cancer over their lifetime, it’s time to shed light on the gossip that surrounds this disease. Seriously … think about the possibility that it could be aluminum. [...]
It was excited to come across your site a short while ago. I arrived here today hoping to learn interesting things. I was not upset. Your well thought out ideas with new strategies on this subject matter were enlightening and a great help to me. Thank you for making time to create these things and for sharing your mind.