Breast Cancer awareness month comes with the dawning of October. Taking the time to reflect and further the search for a way to spare others from the ravages of the disease is what the occasion is all about. Being aware of the reality about breast cancer and the myths concerning cancer of the breast are vital elements within the battle.
The facts behind Breast cancer Awareness Month
In 2009, 192,370 brand new cases of invasive cancer of the breast were found in women, reports American Cancer Society. That exact same year women were diagnosed with 62,280 early-stage breast cancer. Over 40,000 of those were considered to be life threatening. Breast cancer was also estimated to be diagnosed in nearly 2,000 men this past year. Death was a prediction of some of those. About 440 of those were given that diagnosis.
Common cancer of the breast myths
- Bras with underwire make cancer more likely
Breast cancer toxins starting because of the underwire that constricts breast tissue is what most people believe with this one. Dr. Deborah Axelrod explains to CBS that this is not really true.
- Deodorant causes breast cancer
This is also false, claims Dr. Schnabel. There have not even been studies that link breast cancer with antiperspirant and cancer.
- Drink from plastic water bottles and get breast cancer
There’s a debate on whether or not a cancer-causing dioxin is leaked into the water by sitting in plastic water bottles, although there isn’t a consensus. Many believe the plastic releases BPA (bisphenol) also. This hasn’t been linked to cancer either however is a concern for many.
- Mammograms trigger breast cancer
.1 to .2 rads per picture is how much radiation a mammogram releases, Dr. Schnabel tells CBS News. This is less than a woman is exposed to naturally in three months time.
- Lumpy breasts always mean greater risk
A woman won’t be getting breast cancer as a result of lumpy breasts although it can be more difficult to detect with lumpy breasts. However, Dr. Axelrod advises that it’s best to treat newly discovered breast lumps with caution and have a doctor investigate.
- I will not get cancer of the breast with no family history
While breast cancer can run in the family, studies indicate that 80 percent are sporadic cases.
Articles cited
American Cancer Society
cancer.org/Research/CancerFactsFigures/BreastCancerFactsFigures/index
CBS News
cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20018296-10391704.html
