With thanks to Dr. Tapanutt Likhitmaskul, M.D. at Samitivej Hospital in Bangkok.
There are often many misconceptions and myths regarding breast cancer; however, we aim to change that during October or Pinktober, as it is breast cancer awareness month. We aim to help clear up some of these misunderstandings and share the facts. With support from Dr. Tapanutt Likhitmaskul, M.D. at Samitivej Hospital, we’re helping raise awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screening. Samitivej’s team of specialists and their state-of-the-art breast screening facilities are dedicated to educating and empowering women of all ages, body types, and backgrounds, because breast cancer is something that can affect anyone.
Here are 15 of the most common myths about breast cancer and the truth behind them.
Myth 1:
Women with smaller breasts have less chance of getting breast cancer.
Fact:
Breast size has nothing to do with the likelihood of developing breast cancer. The disease begins in the milk ducts or mammary glands, not in the fatty tissue that affects breast size. While larger breasts may contain more fatty tissue, this doesn’t increase the risk unless there’s dense breast tissue involved. If you do have dense breasts, it’s a good idea to schedule regular mammograms to help detect any early signs of abnormality.
Myth 2:
Wearing antiperspirant increases the risk of getting breast cancer.
Fact:
This is a very common misconception. However, the American Cancer Institute has found no solid evidence linking antiperspirant or deodorant use to breast cancer. Research has yet to find any convincing connection between breast cancer and deodorants, antiperspirants, or their ingredients, so there’s no need to worry about your daily routine.
Myth 3:
Wearing an underwire bra increases your risk of breast cancer.
Fact:
Both the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have dismissed this myth. There’s no scientific evidence showing that underwire bras restrict lymphatic flow or cause toxins to build up. While an ill-fitting bra can cause discomfort or swelling, that’s a sizing issue, not a cancer risk. If your bra fits well, you can wear underwire with peace of mind.
Myth 4:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) causes breast cancer.
Fact:
HRT has long been a topic of debate. Studies suggest that combined HRT may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, about 5 additional cases per 1,000 women. However, newer, bioidentical hormone options have greatly improved safety and accuracy. The level of risk also depends on factors such as how long you’ve taken HRT and your age. Always discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor to make an informed choice.
Myth 5:
Plastic surgery causes breast cancer.
Fact:
There is no evidence that breast implants, whether silicone or saline, increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Augmentation doesn’t irritate the breast tissue, and studies have not shown a link between implants and cancer. However, women with implants should still attend regular screenings, as imaging can sometimes be a little trickier with certain types of implants.
Myth 6:
Radiation from breast cancer screening is dangerous to your health.
Fact:
The amount of radiation used in mammograms is very small and considered safe. It only becomes risky after hundreds of exposures, which is far more than any woman would undergo in her lifetime. For women aged 40 and above, having regular mammograms every year or two helps maintain breast health, and the benefits of early detection far outweigh any minimal radiation risk.
Myth 7:
Pressure from a mammogram can cause inflammation or increase the risk of cancer.
Fact:
Mammograms may feel uncomfortable, but they don’t cause inflammation or cancer. With today’s advanced imaging technology, mammograms require less pressure while still providing clear and detailed results. The brief discomfort is a small trade-off for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your breast health is being carefully monitored.
Myth 8:
Having a mammogram is enough to detect breast cancer.
Fact:
While mammograms are an important screening tool, they aren’t foolproof. They detect about 80% of breast cancers, but some small or hidden lumps may not appear clearly. Combining mammography with an ultrasound raises detection accuracy to around 90%, and when followed by an examination by a specialist, that number can reach 99%. A mix of screening methods gives the most reliable results.
Myth 9:
Men cannot get breast cancer.
Fact:
Although rare, men can also develop breast cancer. It typically affects older men, those who are overweight, or those with higher levels of breast tissue. Awareness and early detection are just as important for men. If you notice any unusual changes around the chest area, it’s best to consult a doctor.
Myth 10:
Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk.
Fact:
Around 70% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history or genetic link to the disease. While having a family history does increase risk, lifestyle, environment, and hormonal factors also play major roles. This is why all women, regardless of background, should have regular breast checks and screenings.
Myth 11:
Untreated cysts can turn into cancer.
Fact:
Cysts are usually caused by hormonal changes, particularly estrogen, and are not typically linked to cancer. However, some cancerous lumps can look similar to cysts, which is why accurate diagnosis through mammograms and ultrasounds is so important. Regular checkups help distinguish between harmless cysts and potential warning signs.
Myth 12:
IVF treatments increase the risk of breast cancer.
Fact:
Current research shows no connection between IVF (in vitro fertilisation) treatments and breast cancer. Women who undergo IVF are no more likely to develop the disease than those who haven’t. However, since IVF is still a relatively new procedure, ongoing studies will continue to explore any long-term effects. For now, there’s no reason to avoid IVF based on breast cancer concerns.
Myth 13:
Radiation from mobile phones causes breast cancer.
Fact:
There’s no scientific evidence that mobile phones or their radio waves increase the risk of breast cancer. Even if you often carry your phone in your pocket or near your chest, current research shows no link between everyday phone use and the development of breast cancer. It’s always wise to stay updated on research, but for now, this is one myth you can safely ignore.
Myth 14:
If I find a lump, it must be cancer.
Fact:
Finding a lump can be alarming, but around 80% of breast lumps are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. These may be cysts or changes in breast tissue due to hormones. Still, it’s always best to have any new lump checked by a healthcare professional to confirm what’s going on and catch any issues early.
Myth 15:
It’s better not to know — ignorance is bliss.
Fact:
Avoiding a check-up doesn’t make the problem go away. Breast cancer is treatable, especially when caught early. Early detection greatly increases survival rates and reduces the intensity of treatment needed. The truth may be scary, but getting screened is the most empowering thing you can do for your health and peace of mind.
References
BreastCancer.org. Understanding Your Risk of Developing Breast Cancer. Available at: breastcancer.org
Consumer Health. Benign Breast Lumps. Available at: consumer.healthday.com
National Cancer Institute. Antiperspirants/Deodorants and Breast Cancer. Available at: cancer.gov
Prevention Magazine. 12 Myths to Ignore About Breast Cancer. Available at: prevention.com
Journal of Clinical Oncology. Expanding the Criteria for BRCA Mutation Testing in Breast Cancer Survivors. Available at: jco.ascopubs.org
