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Breast Cancer Myths BUSTED!

There are a lot of myths about breast cancer – and it’s time we debunk them.

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Being a practising oncologist, I am frequently asked about causes of breast cancer. Can doing this or eating that cause cancer?

Though there are a number of legitimate risk factors for cancer, the web is overrun with unsubstantiated claims backed by minimal or poor quality research. So, join me as I bust myths about breast cancer.

MYTH#1: Antiperspirants Cause Cancer

Nope. No studies have shown a link between the two and this theory has been roundly debunked.

So, don’t sweat it, there is no good data to back this claim.

MYTH#2: Your Bra Causes Cancer

No again! A large-scale study found no evidence of bra-wearing habits and any type of cancer in 1500 post-menopausal women. Not the underwire, not the straps, not wearing a bra at night or the size of the bra; all have NO LINK to breast cancer.

There are a lot of myths about breast cancer – and it’s time we debunk them.
The idea that bras, specifically underwire bras, increase the risk of breast cancer is a persistent myth that doctors have tried to dispel for years. (Photo: The Quint)

MYTH#3: You’ll Get Breast Cancer If Your Mom Had It

Here’s the thing, only 10% of breast cancer is hereditary, which means 90% is not. As for this 10% risk: you can inherit cancer genes from both your mother’s and father’s sides of the family.

MYTH#4: Men Don’t Get Breast Cancer

That is simply not true! The risk of breast cancer is lower in men than women because men have minimal breast tissue and a number of breast cancers are dependent on a hormone called estrogen that is predominantly present in women.

There are a lot of myths about breast cancer – and it’s time we debunk them.
As compared to women, men have minimal breast tissue. (Photo: The Quint)

So guys, if you find a lump in your chest: don’t act all macho: go to a doctor and get it checked.

MYTH#5: Caffeine Intake Increases Your Chances Of Getting Cancer

Currently, no connection exists between drinking caffeine and breast cancer. In fact some research suggests that caffeine might actually lower your risk.

Many women think that a breast cancer diagnosis is a death sentence. But in reality, if caught early, breast cancer is usually treatable and most survivors live a normal life.

Now, you can’t change your genes, but healthier lifestyle changes can make all the difference.

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Camera Person: Siddharth Safaya
Video Editor: Kunal Mehra
Script : Nikita Mishra
Producer: Esha Paul

(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)

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Topics:  India Economy   Healthcare   Caffeine 

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