Common Myths About Breast Cancer — What Every Young Woman Should Know
Misinformation can delay help. Read the facts and feel confident about your body and health.
Busting the myths that get in the way of early action
When it comes to breast cancer, myths travel fast: on social media, in gossip, and through worried friends. These myths can make women afraid, careless, or slow to act — and that can cost valuable time. Below are the most common myths we hear and the clear facts you can trust.
Myth 1: Only older women get breast cancer
Truth: Breast cancer is more common after age 40, but young women can and do get it. Abnormal cell growth doesn’t care about age. Because young women sometimes assume they’re “too young,” diagnoses in their 20s and 30s can be delayed. Know your body and report changes — no matter your age.
Myth 2: Breast cancer always comes with a lump
Truth: A lump is a possible sign, but not the only one. Look for changes in size, shape, skin texture (dimpling), redness, nipple changes, or unusual discharge. Regular self-checks help you notice non-lump signs early.
Myth 3: If you have no family history, you can’t get breast cancer
Truth: Most people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. Only about 5–10% of cases are linked to inherited gene mutations (like BRCA). The majority occur due to other factors — so everyone should stay aware and proactive.
Myth 4: Wearing a bra, using deodorant, or carrying your phone causes breast cancer
Truth: No solid science backs these claims. Underwire bras don’t “trap toxins,” deodorants haven’t been shown to cause cancer, and phones do not emit harmful levels of radiation to cause breast cancer. Focus on proven risks: smoking, heavy alcohol use, poor diet, obesity, and inactivity.
Myth 5: Men can’t get breast cancer
Truth: Men can develop breast cancer too — though it’s rare. Men have breast tissue and can experience the same warning signs (lumps, nipple discharge, skin changes). Encourage the men in your life to check and speak up about changes.
Myth 6: Breast cancer is always painful
Truth: Early breast cancer often causes no pain. Many people feel perfectly well in the early stages, which is why screening and monthly checks matter. Pain is more commonly linked to hormonal changes or benign conditions — but check with a clinician if you’re worried.
Myth 7: Finding a lump means you have cancer
Truth: Many lumps are benign — cysts or fibroadenomas are common and non-cancerous. But any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to be safe. Early assessment helps rule out problems quickly.
Myth 8: Once you have breast cancer, it’s a death sentence
Truth: Modern treatments and early detection mean many people survive breast cancer and live full lives. Survival rates have improved, especially when cancer is found early. Awareness and timely action make a big difference.
Myth 9: You can’t prevent breast cancer
Truth: While there’s no guarantee, you can lower your risk with healthy habits: balanced diet, regular activity, adequate sleep, limited alcohol, and not smoking. If you have a strong family history, discuss earlier screening or genetic counselling with your clinician.
Bottom line: Myths can stop people from getting care. Learn the facts, share accurate information with friends, and get checked if something changes. Early detection saves lives — and knowledge is your best defence.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). Breast Cancer: Prevention and Control. Available: who.int
- American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Facts & Figures. Available: cancer.org
- Mayo Clinic. Breast Cancer — Symptoms and Causes. Available: mayoclinic.org
- National Cancer Institute. Genetics of Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (PDQ®). Available: cancer.gov
- Federal Ministry of Health (Nigeria) / Nigerian cancer resources. Breast Cancer Awareness & Early Detection Guidance. (Local guidelines and outreach materials)
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