Breast Cancer Myths: 4 Common Misconceptions About Breast Cancer by Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP

How much do you know about breast cancer? This year, an estimated 297,790 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., and many will be completely blindsided by the news.

To help put your breast cancer risk in perspective, here are four big myths unveiled:

1. Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family, so my risk is low. Almost 90 percent of women diagnosed have no family history. Instead, the biggest risk factor is just being a woman, so if you’re approaching 40, get a mammogram.
2. I can put off my mammogram for six months. Survival rates for the earliest stages of breast cancer are almost 100 percent. By stage III it’s more like 70 percent. Six months is enough time for a negligible lump to develop into something more severe.
3. Breast cancer mostly affects older women. Yes, risk increases with age, but that doesn’t mean younger women don’t need to be concerned. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women ages 15 to 39.
4. Breast cancer is the biggest threat to women. Women are more afraid of breast cancer than of any other illness, but heart disease kills more women than all other cancers combined.

With awareness comes power, so understand the risks, meet with your nurse practitioner and together, make a plan to beat the odds.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.