Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Breast cancer caused 670 000 deaths globally in 2022.

Roughly half of all breast cancers occur in women with no specific risk factors other than sex and age. Global estimates reveal striking inequities in the breast cancer burden according to human development. For instance, in countries with a very high Human Development Index (HDI), 1 in 12 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and 1 in 71 women die of it, WHO stated.

According to Dr. Chirag Agrawal, Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Sterling Hospitals, Rajkot, breast cancer is among the most common types of cancer worldwide, accounting for 14 percent of all cancer cases in Indian women.

“According to 2022 studies, every 4 minutes, an Indian woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. The incidence of female breast cancer has surged by 39.1% between 1990 and 2016. Breast cancer is a formidable foe, but knowledge is its kryptonite,” Dr. Agrawal told Financial Express.com.

Many misconceptions surround its detection, leading to unnecessary fear or complacency.

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“Many people believe that breast cancer is genetic; however, while genetics may play a part, the majority of breast cancer cases are not hereditary. It is also a fallacy that all lumps in the breast are malignant. Many are benign,” she said.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Here some common breast cancer misconceptions that you should know

  • A breast injury can cause breast cancer: A breast injury can cause fat necrosis which can look like cancer on imaging. The best way to distinguish cancer from fat necrosis is with a needle biopsy.
  • Underwire bras increase the risk of breast cancer: Doctors maintain that underwire cannot cause breast cancer. However, it can to skin breakdown.
  • IVF increases the risk of breast cancer: IVF drug can mimic estrogen activity which is believed to cause estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. However, doctors maintain that there is no increase in breast cancer risk for women who received ovarian stimulation drugs
  • Breast cancer not possible without family history: Doctors maintain that only about 5–10% of breast cancers are caused by a genetic mutation that is passed between family members.
  • Stress can cause breast cancer: Stress can have an adverse effect on health and it can worsen existing diseases. However, doctors maintain there is no evidence to support a link between stress and breast cancer.
  • Breast cancer only happens to older adults: This is another common misconception. There is now an alarming rise in breast cancer cases among women in their 20s and 30s.
  • All lumps in the breast signal breast cancer: This is a myth — not all lumps in the breast are cancer. However, any new lump should be examined thoroughly.
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Remember, early detection is key. Don’t let myths cloud your judgment, she emphasised. “Get regular mammograms, perform self-exams, and consult your doctor about any changes. Early diagnosis can make a world of difference. Empower yourself, break the myths, and take control of your health,” she added.