Being a practising oncologist, I am frequently asked about causes of breast cancer. Can doing this or eating that cause cancer?
Though there are a number of legitimate risk factors for cancer, the web is overrun with unsubstantiated claims backed by minimal or poor quality research. So, join me as I bust myths about breast cancer.
MYTH 1: Antiperspirants Cause Cancer
Nope. No studies have shown a link between the two and this theory has been roundly debunked.
So, don’t sweat it, there is no good data to back this claim.
MYTH 2: Your Bra Causes Cancer
No again! A large-scale study found no evidence of bra-wearing habits and any type of cancer in 1500 post-menopausal women. Not the underwire, not the straps, not wearing a bra at night or the size of the bra; all have NO LINK to breast cancer.
MYTH 3: You’ll Get Breast Cancer If Your Mom Had It
Here’s the thing, only 10% of breast cancer is hereditary, which means 90% is not. As for this 10% risk: you can inherit cancer genes from both your mother’s and father’s sides of the family.
MYTH 4: Men Don’t Get Breast Cancer
That is simply not true! The risk of breast cancer is lower in men than women because men have minimal breast tissue and a number of breast cancers are dependent on a hormone called estrogen that is predominantly present in women.
So guys, if you find a lump in your chest: don’t act all macho: go to a doctor and get it checked.
MYTH 5: Caffeine Intake Increases Your Chances Of Getting Cancer
Currently, no connection exists between drinking caffeine and breast cancer. In fact some research suggests that caffeine might actually lower your risk.
Many women think that a breast cancer diagnosis is a death sentence. But in reality, if caught early, breast cancer is usually treatable and most survivors live a normal life.
Now, you can’t change your genes, but healthier lifestyle changes can make all the difference.
Camera Person: Siddharth Safaya
Video Editor: Kunal Mehra
Script : Nikita Mishra
Producer: Esha Paul
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