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Right or wrong? 10 myths about breast cancer

Deodorants containing aluminum, underwire bras or milk increase the risk of breast cancer – these and similar myths are circulating around the world and often a source of uncertainty. But what about the allegations? We explain here what is really true.

Myth 1:Smartphones cause breast cancer

That is not true. Many scientists see no measurable cancer risk from smartphones and therefore no link between the use of mobile phones and the development of breast cancer.

Myth 2:Deodorants containing aluminum cause breast cancer

Error. Only recently was a study by the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) published showing that significantly less aluminum is absorbed through the skin than previously thought. A health risk of aluminum-containing deodorants is therefore very unlikely.

Myth 3:Underwire bras cause breast cancer

That's wrong too. There are several studies that show that wearing underwire bras has nothing to do with breast cancer.

Myth 4:Smoking increases the risk of breast cancer

That's correct. Tobacco consumption generally leads to a higher risk of cancer – studies have proven this time and time again. Smoking is therefore one of the most important preventable risk factors for cancer.

Myth 5:Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer

Probably. Adipose tissue produces greater amounts of estrogen. An increased amount of estrogen is, in turn, linked to the development of breast and cervical cancer.

Myth 6:Only women can get breast cancer

New. Men can also get breast cancer. However, the number of female breast cancer patients is significantly higher.

Myth 7:Breast cancer is hereditary

This is wrong. Familial breast cancer increases the risk of developing the disease, but a genetic risk for breast cancer is not automatically inherited. Only five to ten percent of all breast cancers can be traced back to a hereditary gene mutation.

Myth 8:Breast cancer always kills

Error. The chance of survival depends, among other things, on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. About 90 percent of affected women can be cured with a localized tumor.

Also read; Facts vs Myths About Mammography

Myth 9:Large breasts =greater risk of breast cancer

Wrong again. There is no research to suggest a link between breast size and breast cancer risk. Instead of cup size, breast density is more decisive for the risk of cancer.

Myth 10:Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer

That's correct. Mothers who breastfeed for more than six months may reduce their risk of developing breast cancer, provided they are non-smokers.