Learning the Truth About Breast Cancer

Celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by learning the truth behind these popular breast cancer misconceptions.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Naturally, this month is dedicated to spreading awareness of the realities of breast cancer.  Unfortunately, this disease is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that have the potential to confuse the public.  In honor of this month, learn the truth behind these popular breast cancer misconceptions.

1) “Only women get breast cancer.”

While it’s true that breast cancer is more common in women, this does not mean that males are immune to this disease.  According to estimates from the National Breast Cancer Foundation, over 2,400 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. this year alone.  Additionally, they estimate that 460 men will die as a result of the disease.  If you are a male with a family history of breast cancer, then be sure to speak to your doctor about your breast cancer risk.

2) “Mammograms are my only screening method.”

Mammograms are the most popular and highly advertised form of breast cancer screening method.  However, this does not mean that they are your only option.  Another common screening method is clinical breast exams or CBE.  During a CBE, a doctor will feel around your breasts and underneath your arms for lumps or abnormalities.  This screening test can be administered on both men and women and is the primary cancer screening method for women under the age of 45.

You can also use MRIs to screen for breast cancer.  However, this method is reserved for those with a particularly high risk for breast cancer.  This is because MRI screenings are more invasive, expensive, and more likely to give a false positive.

3) “Breast cancer is an automatic death sentence.”

It’s certainly true that breast cancer is deadly.  However, it’s important to note that the number of deaths caused by breast cancer is declining worldwide.  With early detection and new treatment methods, more and more people are beating breast cancer for good.  In fact, there are over 3.3 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. alone.

This is the truth behind these popular breast cancer misconceptions.  Remember, you should make an effort to take care of yourself this October.  For instance, you should make sure that you have the right personal insurance protection in place.  For assistance with your personal coverage needs, contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.