All breast lumps are cancerous.

In general, 80% of lumps are benign (non-cancerous). However, this does not mean that you should not see your doctor immediately if you detect any changes in your breasts such as a persistent lump.

Chemotherapy will make a woman’s hair fall out.

Hair loss is a temporary side effect of chemotherapy, and is not necessarily experienced by all women. Hair will re-grow after chemotherapy has ended.

Being diagnosed with breast cancer means that a woman will lose her breast.

Many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer will undergo some type of surgery as part of their treatment. However, breast-conserving therapy is becoming common treatment for early stage breast cancers.

The best place to practice a self breast exam (SBE)is in the shower.

Starting at age 20, women should practice monthly SBE standing in front of a mirror and lying down. The steps performed in each position may be repeated while showering, as soap eliminates friction and may have a better efficacy for detecting lumps.

Under wire bras cause breast cancer.

Years ago, a book was published that suggested that under wire bras can constrict the body’s lymph node system, causing breast cancer. However, the link between under wire bras and breast cancer is false and completely inaccurate.

Nipple discharge indicates breast cancer.

Nipple discharges do not necessarily indicate a cancerous condition, but should be checked with your doctor. Nipple discharge is a concern if it is bloody or watery with a red, pink, or brown color, or sticky and clear in color or brown to black in color or if it is persistent, unilateral (on one side), or appears spontaneously without squeezing the nipple.

Breast-feeding causes breast cancer.

Breast-feeding does not cause breast cancer. In fact, some preliminary studies reveal that breast-feeding may decrease a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Breast cancer is contagious.

Cancer is not a communicable disease, which means that you can not catch cancer or transfer it to someone else.

Antiperspirants and deodorants can cause breast cancer.

Antiperspirants and deodorants do not cause breast cancer; this link between antiperspirants and breast cancer is completely false.

Drinking coffee increases a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Coffee does not cause breast cancer, and in several studies with rats, coffee has been shown to actually prevent cancer.