Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. It’s well-known fact, that 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer throughout their lifetime.
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to breast cancer. We must make an effort to fully clear these misconceptions.
Many people think a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer. However, only a small percentage of breast lumps are cancer. Not all breast changes indicate cancer. Performing breast self-exams and annual breast exams with your doctor is the best way to stay on top of your health.
Another myth is that deodorants and antiperspirants can cause breast cancer. But there is no conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants.
Women think men do not get breast cancer. But breast cancer doesn’t just impact the ladies, and approximately 2, 190 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Breast self-exams and reporting changes to your doctor is a good practice for men too! Lumps are usually detected near the nipple and areola area for men.
Many women believe that they are too young to get breast cancer. But 25 % of women with breast cancer are younger than 50 years old.
It is often said that only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk. In many cases breast cancer is hereditary. But many women have been diagnosed due to poor lifestyle habits like smoking, heavy drinking, junk food, etc.
Although 70 % of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors for the disease.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Constant pain in the breast or your armpit
The change in skin texture (puckering or dimpling)
The difference in shape or size
Discharge (liquid0 comes from the nipple without squeezing
The nipple becoming inverted (pulled in) or changing its position or shape
The lump or thickening that feels different from the rest of the breast tissue
The rash or redness around the nipple on the skin
The swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone
Breast cancer can cause signs and symptoms that include changes to the skin on and around the breast. While many of these conditions can potentially cause breast changes, including cysts, infections, eczema, and dermatitis, you should not automatically rule out breast cancer. Seeing your doctor for evaluation and diagnosis can help determine whether or not any breast changes are cause for concern. Some of the things such as family history you can’t control, but some of them you can. When detected early, breast cancer survival rates are greater than 98%.
What Can I Do to Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer?
Limit alcohol. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer.
Don't smoke.
Control your weight and maintain a healthy BMI.
Be physically active.
Breast-feed.
Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy.
Be proactive about your health and get your annual mammogram! Early detection saves lives. For more information, please call Century Medical clinic in Peabody, MA at (978) 594-8980 or contact us online.
Schedule your consultation with the best doctors in Peabody, MA!
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