There are still many people who are not that aware with breast cancer facts. Some are still in the shade about the real thing when it comes to the illness. It is important for everyone to know the basic things about the breast cancer and eliminate the fictional stories that have been coming out. This article will share some of the facts and myths about breast cancer to inform and educate people all around the world.

Fact or Myth: Breast cancer is hereditary so if your family doesn’t have a history then you are safe from having one.

It is definitely a myth. The fact is breast cancer cases that are a result of mutations or gene defects inherited from a parent is said to be about 5% to 10% only. Statistics show that there are about 70% to 80% of women who have breast cancer that don’t have family history of the disease.

Fact or Myth: You cannot do anything to protect yourself from breast cancer if you have a family history.

This is another myth. If you find out that one of your family members or relatives have breast cancer, it is suggested to tell your doctor. By discussing with your doctor how many and which of your relatives have breast cancer, it would be helpful in determining whether you are at possible risk of having the disease. Early detection of the disease will make it more helpful in giving you the necessary treatments and medications that will lessen the risk of developing the disease.

Fact or Myth: If you are on an average risk of acquiring breast cancer then the risk of developing the disease cannot be reduced.

The fact is while there are risk factors that you have no control over (i.e. family history and age), there are important breast cancer risk factors that you can change (i.e. weight, physical activity, and alcohol consumption). With the risk factors that you can change, there is a chance that you will be able to reduce the risk of developing further the disease.