15 Persistent Myths About Breast Cancer and the Truth Behind Them

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, yet misinformation about it continues to spread. Misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary fear, dangerous assumptions, or missed opportunities for early detection. In its “Medical Myths” series, Medical News Today recently dove into some of the most common misconceptions with the help of three experts:

Dr. Michael Zeidman, breast surgeon at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai;

Dr. Crystal Fancher, surgical breast oncologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center; and

Dr. Richard Reitherman, medical director of breast imaging at MemorialCare Breast Center.

1. A breast injury can cause cancer.

A bruise or injury might cause fat necrosis, a harmless condition that can look suspicious on a mammogram but it does not cause cancer. A biopsy can easily tell the difference.

2. Underwire bras raise your risk.

Underwire bras don’t cause breast cancer. At worst, they might irritate the skin and cause infection if they rub or fit poorly.

3. IVF treatments lead to breast cancer.

Despite early concerns about estrogen-stimulating medications, decades of data show no increased breast cancer risk among IVF patients.

4. No one in my family has had breast cancer, so I’m safe.

Most people diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history. Only 5–10% of cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations. Screening is important whether or not cancer runs in your family.

5. Stress can cause breast cancer.

Stress affects mental and physical well-being, but there is no evidence it increases breast cancer risk.

6. A healthy lifestyle eliminates the risk.

Healthy habits matter, but no lifestyle can eliminate breast cancer risk entirely, even people who eat well and exercise regularly can develop it.

7. Breast cancer only affects older adults.

Risk increases with age, but about 5% of cases occur in women under 40. People with strong genetic risk may need screening as early as 25.

8. A lump always means cancer.

Most breast lumps are benign, but every new lump still deserves a professional evaluation.

9. Abortion increases breast cancer risk.

Large observational studies, including one involving 1.5 million women, show no link between abortion and breast cancer.

10. Carrying your phone in your bra can cause cancer.

There is no evidence that cell phones cause breast cancer. That said, slipping your phone into a pocket or bag is an easy precaution.

11. Nipple piercings increase your cancer risk.

Piercings do not increase breast cancer risk. They can cause complications such as infection, cysts, blocked ducts, or keloids.

12. Sugar feeds breast cancer.

Sugar doesn’t directly feed tumors, but excessive sugar intake can contribute to weight gain and inflammation factors associated with cancer risk. Moderation is best for overall health.

13. Men don’t get breast cancer.

Men account for about 1% of breast cancer diagnoses. Men, especially those with BRCA2 mutations or family history should stay alert to any changes in breast tissue.

14. Mammograms cause cancer to spread.

Mammograms use low-dose radiation and compression, but there is no evidence that they cause cancer or help it spread.

15. If there’s no lump, there’s no cancer.

Many breast cancers are detected on mammograms long before they can be felt. Early detection dramatically improves survival.

The Bottom Line

Breast cancer is common but early detection saves lives. Regular screening, knowing your personal risk factors, and staying informed are essential tools. Myths can be misleading; accurate information empowers you to make the best choices for your health.

Credit

This blog is based on the article “Medical Myths: All about breast cancer” written by Tim Newman and fact-checked by Ferdinand Lali, Ph.D., originally published October 7, 2021, by Medical News Today.