Breast Cancer myths
Myth 1
There's no history of breast cancer in my family, so I don't need to worry.
Fact
More than 80% of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease.
Myth 2
I don't need a mammogram if I don't have any symptoms.
Fact
A mammogram can detect breast cancer when it is very small. Remember, if detected early, breast cancer can be treated with success.
Myth 3
My doctor didn't tell me to get a mammogram so I don't need one.
Fact
Today most doctors tell women to begin having mammograms every year starting at age 40. But remember, if you have any symptoms, like a lump in your breast, see your doctor right away.
Myth 4
Having a mammogram is really painful.
Fact
A mammogram is a little uncomfortable because your breast is put between two plastic plates and flattened. Mammograms take only a few seconds so you're not uncomfortable for long.
Myth 5
Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer.
Fact
8 out of 10 lumps are not cancer! If you discover a lump or any changes in your breast go see your doctor right away
Myth 6
A mammogram gives off a lot of radiation.
Fact
Since a mammogram is an x-ray it uses radiation to take a picture. The amount of radiation is very small compared to the benefits of detecting breast cancer early.
Myth 7
I've already had a mammogram and it didn't show any cancer, so I don't need another one.
Fact
Once is not enough! Every woman starting at age 40 should start have a mammogram every year. Breast cancer usually grows slowly so you need to go every year to catch it when it's small.
Myth 8
If a mammogram finds something it's too late to do anything.
Fact
When breast cancer is found early your chances of survival are 96%! This means that 96 out of 100 women survive for 5 or more years! There are many options for treatment when breast cancer is found early.
Myth 9
The size of my breast changes my risk for getting breast cancer.
Fact
Whether large or small, the size of a woman's breasts does not change her risk for getting breast cancer.
Myth 10
A mammogram is not a cure for breast cancer.
Fact
A mammogram can detect breast cancer when it's very small. Remember if detected early breast cancer can be treated with success.
Cancer Detection Programs: Every Woman Counts offers free breast exams and mammograms to women age 40 and older. To see if you qualify for these free tests call 1-800-511-2300 Monday - Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. We speak English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean and Vietnamese.