Myths About Breast Cancer Still Prevail

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Main Category: Breast Cancer
Article Date: 02 Oct 2007 - 10:00 PDT

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Although 76% of people consider themselves well-informed about breast cancer, this knowledge is not always accurate, according to a survey released by the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC). The majority of people surveyed, 56%, still believe that the bulk of breast cancers only occur among women who have a family history or genetic disposition to the disease. This is despite the fact that at least two-thirds of all women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no know risk factors.

Having a hereditary mutation in specific genes is the most potent risk factor. However, the National Cancer Institute explains "these genes are rare in the general population and are estimated to account for no more than 5% to 10% of breast and ovarian cancer cases overall."

39% of the people surveyed believe that the reason so much progress has been made in the fight against breast cancer is awareness about how to self-detect breast cancer. However, research has indication that self-examinations do not reduce deaths due to breast cancer - they do increase the number of benign lumps detected, as well as boost people's state of anxiety, unnecessary biopsies and visits to the doctor. There is not enough evidence either way, says the US Preventive Services Task Force, to advise for or against teaching or performing routine breast self-examination.

78% of respondents aged 18-24 believe that if you eat lots of fruits and vegetables your chances of developing breast cancer are considerably reduced. However, studies have found that diets rich in vegetable and fruits do not significantly lower breast cancer incidence.

Too many women over 50, according to the survey, believe not much has been achieved in reducing the number of deaths due to breast cancer. In fact, 44% of the women in this age group doubt that prevention will be found during their lifetime, while 86% think it will happen during their children's lifetime.

There is much more interest in prevention among 18-24 year olds (53%) than among their mothers and grandmothers. Older women believe the focus should be on effective treatments.

Only 8% of women knew that government funded breast cancer research existed, even though they believe this type of research is the best.

80% of the women surveyed are aware that taking HRT (hormone replacement therapy) raises breast cancer risk.

59% of respondents claim to have bought or worn a pink ribbon. However, only 36% think it will have any impact on the fight against breast cancer. 96%, on the other hand, believe that contributing to a breast cancer charity is either important or somewhat important in the fight against breast cancer.

Fran Visco, NBCC President, said "The time has come for consumers to take the next step beyond pink ribbons and products. Popular efforts to raise breast cancer awareness lull the public into complacency, into a false sense that adequate progress is being made against this disease. We urge women and men nationwide to join us in our work to improve research, diagnosis and treatment and ultimately end this disease forever. One way to get involved is to visit NBCC's new Breast Cancer Caucus website, to see the videos and statements from presidential candidates. Breast cancer is an important issue in the campaign and our website is a valuable resource for voters in making their decisions."

-- National Breast Cancer Coalition

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
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