We separate the truth from the lies about breast cancer
Myth 1: You are only at risk of developing breast cancer if you have a family history.
Fact: About 70 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. But if you do have a first-degree relative (mom, sister, child) who has had breast cancer, your risk of contracting the disease doubles.
Myth 2: If air hits a tumor during surgery, it causes the cancer to spread.
Fact: Surgery doesn’t cause breast cancer—or any cancer for that matter—to spread.
Myth 3: If you have small breasts, you are immune to getting breast cancer.
Fact: Breast size has absolutely no connection to your risk of breast cancer. But it can be more difficult to examine larger breasts.
Myth 4: Your caffeine habit increases your risk of developing cancer.
Fact: There’s no link between caffeine and breast cancer, so you can keep tossing back your morning cup of Joe. However, doctors are still studying the link between caffeine and breast soreness.
Myth 5: Annual mammograms increase your risk because of the radiation exposure.
Fact: There is some exposure to radiation from a mammogram, but it’s a very small amount. Experts say the benefits outweigh the risks, and the American Cancer Society recommends all women age 45 to 54Â have an annual screening mammogram. Those older than age 55 should have a mammogram every two years.
