Cancer and breast cancer can be complex topics to research and discuss. Read our quick overview of what breast cancer is and breast cancer myths vs. facts. Breastcancer.org has graciously provided this information, and you can learn more about this incredible nonprofit and how you can help donate to this organization below.
What is breast cancer?
Cancer happens when mutations or abnormal changes occur in the genes responsible for regulating the growth and health of cells. So, breast cancer is defined as an uncontrolled growth of breast cells. There are stages of breast cancer determined by the cancer's unique characteristics, such as hormones or unintended growth/tumor size, which are numbered 0 through IV.
Our partner, Breastcancer.org, has given us all the facts on the matter, so we are here to debunk three myths about breast cancer. Learn more about Breastcancer.org towards the end of this article.
Breast Cancer Myths
MYTH: Wearing a bra can cause breast cancer.
FACT: There is no evidence that bras cause breast cancer. The theory that spawns this myth is that bras - especially underwire bras - restrict lymph fluid flow out of the breast, causing toxic substances to build up in the tissue.
There is no evidence to support this claim. In a 2014 study of 1,500 women with breast cancer, there was no link found between bra-wearing and breast cancer.
MYTH: If you maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat healthily, and limit alcohol, you don’t have to worry about breast cancer.
FACT: Even though these behaviors can help lower your breast cancer risk, they cannot eliminate it.
It is important to manage the risk factors you can control, such as monitoring what you eat and drink and exercising regularly. But, it is equally important to get regular screenings, perform breast self-exams, and pay attention to any unusual changes in your breasts.
MYTH: If you do not have a family history of breast cancer, you will not get the disease.
FACT: Most people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. Only about 5–10% of breast cancers are believed to be hereditary. The vast majority of people who get breast cancer have no family history. Over time, healthy breast cells can develop mutations on their own, eventually turning into cancer cells. The most significant risk factors of getting breast cancer are:
- Being a women
- Growing older
Importance of Breast Cancer Exams and Screenings
A breast self-exam can be an important way to find breast cancer early when it is more likely to be treated successfully. While no single test can detect all breast cancers early, Breastcancer.org believes that performing breast self-exam in combination with other screening methods can increase the odds of early detection.
Screening tests, such as yearly mammograms, are given routinely to people who appear to be healthy and are not suspected of having breast cancer. Their purpose is to find breast cancer early before any symptoms can develop.
Each of these screening tools works differently and has its strengths and weaknesses. A breast self-exam is a convenient, no-cost tool that you can use regularly and at any age. Breastcancer.org recommends that all women routinely perform breast self-exams as part of their overall breast cancer screening strategy. When used in combination with regular physical exams by a doctor, mammography, and in some cases ultrasound and/or MRI, this strategy can increase the odds of early detection.
Who is Breastcancer.org?
Breastcancer.org is the leading patient-focused resource for breast health and breast cancer education and support. Founded in 2000, its mission is to engage and empower people with breast cancer. Focusing on providing easy-to-digest research and expert medical information, this nonprofit organization hosts a dynamic peer support community to help educate all to make the best decisions for their lives.
How can I help?
In 2018, Wigs.com teamed up with Breastcancer.org to help educate their community about wigs and fundraise for this organization's programs.
One way we help fundraise for this organization is through a donation option in the Wigs.com shopping cart. When checking out online, you'll see the 95¢ donation option to Breastcancer.org. For those who have donated to the cause already, thank you!
In honor of breast cancer awareness month, Wigs.com matched all donations to Breastcancer.org received through our website in October 2021. Our goal was to raise $10,000 for this incredible organization! And, we're happy to announce that we met our goal! Thank you to all who donated.
This small act can make a big difference in the lives of many battling breast cancer. We hope you continue to join us in our efforts!
Explore more breast cancer resources at www.breastcancer.org.