Wearing an underwire bra does not elevate the risk of developing breast cancer. Dr. Shekhar Salkar, a senior consultant in surgical oncology at Manipal Hospital Goa, identifies this as one of the most enduring misconceptions. In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Salkar, along with Dr. Sravan Kumar B, a consultant in medical oncology and bone marrow transplant physician at Manipal Hospital Vijayawada, clarifies and dispels false information surrounding breast cancer.

Beliefs based on myths about breast cancer can result in the unnecessary avoidance of safe products, the rejection of essential preventive health measures, and the pursuit of misguided medical advice. Given the challenge of distinguishing between fact and fiction, misinformation regarding cancer can have dire consequences for individuals. Below are 11 myths about breast cancer that you should stop believing:

1. Myth: Wearing a bra with an underwire can cause breast cancer.

Truth: Dr Salkar says there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The risk of breast cancer is not increased by wearing an underwire bra.

2. Myth: Breast cancer only affects older women.

Fact: Although the likelihood of developing breast cancer rises with age, it can impact women at any stage of life, according to Dr. Salkar. Approximately 30 percent of breast cancer diagnoses are found in women younger than 45. Dr. Kumar B notes that while the incidence is higher in women over 50, younger women and even men are also at risk. Therefore, consistent self-examinations and screenings are essential, irrespective of age.

3. Myth: If you have a family history of breast cancer, you'll get it.

Dr. Kumar B states that although a family history of breast cancer does elevate the risk, the majority of breast cancer cases arise in individuals without any familial background of the disease. In fact, only 5 to 10 percent of cases are associated with inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Dr. Salkar further notes that possessing a family history of breast cancer raises the risk by approximately 6 to 7 percent. It is important to highlight that many women with a family history do not go on to develop breast cancer.

4. Myth: Breast cancer is contagious.

Truth: Dr Salkar says breast cancer is not contagious.

5. Myth: Mammograms cause breast cancer due to radiation exposure.

Truth: Dr Kumar B says the radiation exposure from a mammogram is minimal and does not significantly increase cancer risk. The benefits of early detection far outweigh any potential risks.

6. Myth: A lump in the breast always means cancer.

Truth: According to Dr Kumar B., not all lumps are cancerous. Many breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and could be due to cysts or fibroadenomas. However, he says, any new lump should be evaluated by a doctor.

7. Myth: Using antiperspirants and deodorants causes breast cancer.

Truth: Dr Kumar B says no scientific studies have proven a link between antiperspirants or deodorants and breast cancer. Although the aluminum compounds in these products are harmful, there is no strong evidence linking them to cancer.

8. Myth: Lifestyle changes can completely prevent breast cancer.

Truth: While a healthy lifestyle (exercise, balanced diet, avoiding alcohol/tobacco) reduces risk, it does not guarantee complete prevention, Dr Kumar B says. Genetics and other uncontrollable factors also play a role.

9. Myth: If you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, you will definitely develop breast cancer.

Truth: While BRCA1/2 mutations significantly increase the risk, they do not guarantee cancer, Dr Kumar B says. Lifestyle choices and preventive measures like regular screenings, medications, or preventive surgeries can help reduce the risk.

10. Myth: Mammograms can cause breast cancer.

Truth: Dr Salkar says the benefits of mammograms in detecting breast cancer far outweigh the risks. While mammograms involve exposure to low levels of radiation, the risk of developing breast cancer from a mammogram is extremely low.

11. Myth: If you have no symptoms, you don’t have breast cancer.

Truth: Early-stage breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, Dr Kumar B says. That’s why routine screenings, such as mammograms, are essential for early detection.

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