Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/589341
There's a lot of misleading information out there about breast cancer dangers. Here, we dispel some of the most common myths. SLEEPING IN A BRA OR WEARING AN UNDERWIRE BRA CAN CAUSE BREAST CANCER. FICTION. While studies have found that breast cancer is slightly less common among women who don't wear bras, the difference was not signifi cant enough to correlate with a direct cause. Additionally, women of an unhealthy weight are at a higher risk for breast cancer and also more likely to wear bras. Multiple studies have shown that how much you wear a bra or what style of bra you wear does not affect your likelihood of getting breast cancer. MY MOM NEVER HAD BREAST CANCER, SO I WON'T GET IT. FICTION. It's true that a family history of breast cancer (especially a fi rst-degree relative such as a mother, sister or daughter) increases your risk. However, 85 percent of women who develop breast cancer have no family history of the disease. Complete breast self-exams monthly and ensure clinical breast exams and mammograms are performed by a professional as recommended by your physician. DRINKING ALCOHOL INCREASES YOUR RISK FOR BREAST CANCER. FACT. Compared to women who drink no alcohol, women who have three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15-percent higher risk of breast cancer. There is as much as a 10-percent increase in breast cancer risk associated with each additional drink per day. The American Cancer Society recommends women limit their drinking to no more than one drink per day. MEN DON'T GET BREAST CANCER. FICTION. More than 2,000 American men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Family history, inherited genetic mutations, radiation exposure, alcohol consumption and obesity are all risk factors for male breast cancer. A PHYSICIAN SHOULD EVALUATE ANY CHANGES IN YOUR BREASTS. FACT. Lumps are common signs of breast cancer, but skin irritation or dimpling, nipple pain or retraction, or a discharge other than breast milk can also be signs of cancer. Don't ignore any change to your breasts and share your concerns with your physician. Breast Cancer Fact o Fiction: What can increase your risk for breast cancer, and what's completely harmless? You Be• Brea• Self-Exam The American Cancer Society recommends all women become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and be aware of any changes to them. A thorough breast self-exam should take about 20 minutes. Use these guidelines to thoroughly examine your breasts for potential warning signs. Step 1: Look. Stand in front of a mirror and take note of any changes, including dimpling, puckering or bulging in the skin, changes in nipple position, or redness and rash. Raise your arms, and look for the same changes. Step 2: Feel. Lying down, feel your breasts with the pads of your fingers by making a firm, smooth motion in a circle about the size of a quarter. Feel from the top of your collarbone to the top of your stomach, then from your armpit to your cleavage. Do the same thing while standing and sitting. Step 3: Stay aware. Know what is normal for you and your breasts, and always tell your physician about any changes or odd sensations. For more information about breast health, and to make an appointment for a screening, call the CHRISTUS Breast Care Center at (318) 681-4100. Your primary care provider can help you understand your breast cancer risk factors. To find a physician, visit christushealthsb.org/doctors or call (844) CPG-DOCS (274-3627). 10 christushealthsb.org