Dispelling breast cancer rumours
SOMETIMES, spotting the difference between fact and fiction when it comes to breast cancer, can be quite hard.
There are many myths out there, being shared and spread among men and women and giving rise to much confusion and uncertainty.
Some myths are easy to spot as a falsehood; like saying only women can be diagnosed with breast cancer — roughly 140 to 150 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia every year.
According to the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), there are other myths that are not supported by research or are unproven because not enough research has been done to support the claim.
■ Internet rumours suggesting that using antiperspirants or deodorants can cause breast cancer through the absorption of chemicals into the skin, are false.
■ There is no evidence to support the rumour that wearing underwire or tight–fitting bras increase the risk of breast cancer.
■ Several studies have found that silicone breast implants do not increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer, but can cause scar tissue to form in the breast.
If you read or hear something you are unsure about, you can submit a cancer–related question to Cancer Council’s iHeard website and they will respond with an answer.
In all cases, consult your doctor if you have concerns or questions about breast cancer.