Although there is more breast cancer awareness now than before, several breast cancer myths still surface around. A breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata debunks five common myths about breast cancer in the following section.

 

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Myths and Facts about Breast Cancer

Myth 1: You will get breast cancer if you have a family member who has it.


Fact: Most of the breast cancer patients don’t have a family history of the disease. Approximately, only about 5-10% of people diagnosed with breast cancer have family history of the condition. It is not a hereditary disease.


Myth 2: You won’t get breast cancer if you lead a healthy lifestyle.


Fact: Although eating healthy, being physically active and reducing alcohol consumption can lower your chances of developing breast cancer but does not completely prevent it. It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk as much as possible. Still, there is always a possibility of developing breast cancer, says the breast cancer doctor in Kolkata.


Myth 3: This condition only occurs in women.


Fact: Although it is rare, men can also get breast cancer as they also have breast tissues. Male breast cancer is more typical among older men, although it can happen to men of any age. Conditions that impact the prostate can also enhance the risk of a man developing breast cancer.


Myth 4: Breast cancer doesn’t affect younger women.


Fact: According to the breast cancer doctor in Kolkata, although, mostly breast cancer in seen in women older than 50 but, it can affect people of any age. The chances of developing breast cancer increase as you age, but that doesn’t mean that younger women and men can’t get it. People of all ages must conduct self-examinations and pay attention to numerous breast cancer signs, such as nipple discharge, redness or flakiness, change in breast color, etc.


Myth 5: Any lump on the breast indicates breast cancer.


Fact: A lump on the breast does not always mean that you have breast cancer. Having lumps on breasts can sometimes be a symptom of breast cancer, but there are also many non-cancerous lumps. Most of the lumps on the breasts are non-cancerous and just benign lumps. To confirm what type of lump you have, you must consult a doctor for proper screening and check-up, says the breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata.