Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissue of the breast. According to National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Thankfully more women survive breast cancer every day due to advanced treatments and early detection.

With all the misinformation out there and to stay on top of breast health, it’s important to know how to separate the facts from the fiction. Read below for the truth about five common breast cancer myths:

• Myth #1: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer. Actually, only a small percentage of breast lumps turn out to be cancerous. But if a lump is discovered, it should not be ignored. Take care of your health by performing routine self-exams and getting an annual clinical breast exam.
• Myth #2: Men don’t get breast cancer; it only affects women. While it is a small number, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., each year it is estimated that approximately 2,190 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Men should check themselves regularly and contact their physicians regarding any changes.
• Myth #3: A mammogram can cause breast cancer to spread. Although a mammogram (an x-ray of the breast) requires a small amount of radiation, the risk of harm is very low. Breast compression from a mammogram cannot cause cancer. The standard recommendation is for every woman to get an annual mammogram starting at age 40.
• Myth #4: If you have a family history of breast cancer, you are likely to develop breast cancer. Women who have a family history of breast cancer are in a higher risk group. However, most women who have breast cancer have no family history. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., statistically, only about 10 percent of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of it.
• Myth #5: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer. Researchers at the National Cancer Institute are not aware of any conclusive evidence linking the use of deodorants or antiperspirants to breast cancer.

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