Breast cancer is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can fuel fear and delay timely diagnosis. From the belief that only older women are at risk to concerns about painless lumps, mammograms, and bras, misinformation can prevent women from seeking medical advice. Dr Geeta Chadha, a renowned gynaecologist and senior Consultant at Indraprastha Apollo, explains seven common breast cancer myths and separates fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Breast cancer is a disease of older women.
“Although breast cancer is more common in older women, younger women can develop it too. We are seeing cases in women in their 30s and 40s. Any suspicious lump or change should be evaluated, irrespective of age.”
Myth 2: If there is no family history, I cannot develop breast cancer.
“That is not true. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no previous family history. The absence of affected relatives does not eliminate the risk.”
Myth 3: A painless lump is not cancer.
“Many breast cancers are painless. Women should not wait for a lump to hurt before seeking medical advice. Pain does not reliably distinguish a benign lump from a cancerous one.”
Myth 4: Mammography causes cancer because it uses radiation.
“Mammography uses low-dose X-rays and is an important tool for detecting breast cancer early. Its purpose is not to prevent cancer from developing, but to identify it at an earlier stage, when treatment may be more effective. Women should discuss the appropriate screening schedule with their doctors.”
Myth 5: A breast biopsy will cause cancer to spread.
“This is not true. A biopsy is an important part of diagnosing a suspicious breast lump. If cancer is present, the biopsy helps establish the diagnosis so that appropriate treatment can be planned. Women should not avoid a medically indicated biopsy because of this fear.”
“Women also ask whether wearing a bra, wearing one at night, or particular contraceptive practices cause breast cancer. The evidence available to date does not establish that wearing a bra, including at night, causes breast cancer.”
“Doctors must listen to patients’ concerns and address these misconceptions. Otherwise, myths continue to spread from person to person and across generations.”
Myth 6: Breast cancer always causes a lump.
Fact: Breast cancer can present with other changes, including skin dimpling, nipple inversion, unusual nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or swelling in the armpit. Some early cancers may cause no noticeable symptoms. That is why screening and prompt evaluation of unusual changes matter.
Myth 7: Wearing a bra, using deodorants or underarm products causes breast cancer.
Fact: There is no convincing scientific evidence that wearing bras, including underwired bras, or using ordinary antiperspirants and deodorants causes breast cancer. These claims circulate widely online but lack reliable evidence.