Myth 1: Most breast cancers are hereditary Even in women with a family history of breast cancer, in many cases there is no clear genetic mutation, but instead it is associated with a common lifestyle and genetic susceptibility. In fact, scientists still haven’t found the true cause of breast cancer. The best way to find the cause is to compare women who have never had breast cancer with those who have been diagnosed or are at high risk. Myth 2: Women with small breasts are less likely to develop the disease Breast cancer has little to do with breast size. All breast cancer cells develop in relation to the ducts or lobules of the breast, both of which are the same in all women, and whose main function is to make milk and transport it to the nipple. The size of the breast, on the other hand, is generally related to the amount of fatty stroma (fibrous tissue), which has little to do with the chances of developing breast cancer. Recommendation: All women over the age of 40 should have regular mammograms. Myth 3: Mammograms prevent or reduce the risk of breast cancer Regular mammograms do not prevent or reduce the risk of breast cancer. The test can only confirm a diagnosis of breast cancer, thereby reducing the mortality rate of breast cancer patients by 16%. However, the majority of breast cancers diagnosed by mammography are typically 6-8 years old, and tumors are missed up to 20% of the time. Therefore, all women should pay close attention to their health and have an annual mammogram to detect breast abnormalities early. Regular high-quality X-rays, as well as clinical breast exams, are the most effective way to detect breast cancer, and can confirm the diagnosis at the earliest stage of the disease. Myth 4: Birth control pills can cause breast cancer There is not enough evidence to advise women to stop using birth control pills to avoid breast cancer. The formulations of birth control pills have changed – most contain lower doses of hormones that can cause breast cancer. When women stop using the pill, their risk of cancer returns to what it was 10 years ago. The risk of cancer may depend on the race or age group in which one lives, and birth control pills may have nothing to do with breast cancer. Myth 5: Wearing a bra increases the risk of cancer We have no scientific or clinical evidence to support the claim that ordinary or wire bras cause breast cancer. If not wearing a bra does reduce the risk of cancer, it is only because they are thin, and obesity is a known risk factor for cancer.