Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2017: 4 common myths busted
It’s the most common cancer in the UK, yet misinformation abounds when it comes to Breast Cancer. Arm yourself with the facts this October:
1 Superfoods will save you
Be it broccoli, blueberries or the latest super spice, hardly a week goes by without a headline proclaiming a new food hero will eradicate cancer. However, the effect of diet on disease risk is very difficult to measure, and studies carried out in labs cannot accurately reflect what would happen in the body, so claims are inconclusive. But these foods come with a host of other healthy benefits so don’t shy away.
2 Antiperspirant deodorant is dangerous
We’ve not found convincing evidence supporting claims that aluminium chloride (found in antiperspirants and talcum powder) is linked to breast cancer. Studies have proved too small, vague or implausible to affect the advice given to women. But it’s your choice. If you want to be careful, Holland & Barrett have some great natural deodorants.
3 Mammograms cause cancer
The ionising radiation used in X-rays can up cancer risk a tiny amount, but don’t let this put you off – it’s insignificant when compared to the benefits of screening. The radiation you receive during a mammogram is less than you’re exposed to in daily life and has no significant impact on breast cancer risk.
4 Breast-feeding will slash your risk
Yes, it does offer some protection and yes, the longer you breast-feed for, the greater the benefits. But the reduction in risk is minuscule, so don’t panic if you haven’t had children or weren’t able to breast-feed.
Want to read more? Discover 5 ways to lower your breast cancer risk in the latest October/November issue of Healthy magazine.
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