In October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, information and early detection take center stage again. Although periodic screenings are essential, there are still beliefs circulating that can create a false sense of security, delay seeking care, or lead to confusion about how to prevent and detect the disease.
Is it true that breast cancer only affects those with a family history? Are young women out of danger? Does self-examination replace mammography? To clear up these doubts, Dr. María Carlota Lucini (MN 123.528), specialist in Reproductive Medicine at Halitus Medical Institute, explains in this article the five most common myths about breast cancer and provides key information to care for breast health.
Additionally, she addresses an important aspect for women who receive a diagnosis at reproductive age: the possibilities of preserving fertility before starting certain treatments.
Myth 1: “If I have no family history, I cannot have breast cancer”
False. Almost 9 in 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no direct family member with the disease. Hereditary cancers, such as those linked to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, account for only about 5 to 10% of cases.
The main risk factor is, simply, being a woman and having older age. Having a family history increases risk and can change when and how you should be screened. Not having relatives does not mean you are protected. All women need their screenings.
Myth 2: “If I am young, I don’t have to worry”
False. It is less common, but it can occur. Most cases are diagnosed after the age of 50. However, a portion of women are diagnosed before 40. In these cases, the tumor is usually detected later, because neither the patient nor, at times, the healthcare team think of that possibility.
Therefore, at any age, a change in the breast deserves a consultation. There is an aspect that is often overlooked: in a young woman, the diagnosis often arrives before she has completed her motherhood project. Some treatments, such as chemotherapy, can affect ovarian reserve.
Today there are options to preserve fertility, such as egg or embryo vitrification, with safe protocols for this type of tumor. Ideally, discuss this before starting oncological treatment. In most cases, this can be done in a few weeks, without delaying treatment.
Myth 3: “Self-exam replaces mammography”
False. Knowing one’s own breasts is valuable: it helps notice changes and consult promptly. But mammography detects lesions much smaller, before they can be felt. Those are the tumors that are treated with better outcomes and, often, with less extensive surgeries.
Studies have shown that self-examination alone does not reduce mortality. Routine mammography, conversely, does so at the recommended ages. They are complementary tools: one does not replace the other.
From what age and how often? The Argentine Society of Mastology recommends an annual mammography starting at age 40 in women without symptoms, with normal clinical checks and no history of the disease.
If a first-degree relative (mother or sister) had breast cancer, it is advised to start 10 years before the age at which she was diagnosed. In each case, the physician can adjust these screenings according to individual risk.
Myth 4: “If I find a lump, it means I have cancer”
False. In most cases, not. The majority of lumps detected in the breast are benign. They can be cysts, fibroadenomas or changes related to the hormonal cycle, especially in young women.
This does not mean you should ignore them. Every new lump requires a medical evaluation, usually with ultrasound, mammography or both. If necessary, a biopsy is performed. Consulting early helps you stay reassured or start on time if needed. In both cases, waiting does not help.
Myth 5: “If I had a mammogram recently, any change can wait”
False. Mammography is an excellent study, but not infallible. Some tumors are not visible, especially in dense breasts, common in younger women. Others may appear in the interval between checks.
A normal study reflects how the breast was that day; it is not a guarantee until the next check. In the event of any change, you must consult, even if the last mammography was recent.
Some signs to watch for include:
- A new lump.
- Retracting skin or nipple.
- Nipple discharge, especially if bloody.
- Redness or skin that looks like an orange peel.
- A lump in the armpit.
In short, breast cancer can affect any woman, with or without history and at different ages. Regular screenings and timely consultation for any change remain fundamental tools for early detection. And if the diagnosis arrives at reproductive age, asking about fertility preservation before treatment also forms part of comprehensive health care.
