In the pink of health? Here are 5 myths about breast cancer and why you should stay prepared

You exercise regularly, have no family history of breast cancer and you don’t feel any lumps on your breasts. These are common positive indications that the chances of developing breast cancer are low. However, we rather not take chances when it comes to our health. As they say, health is wealth.

One in 15 women in Singapore is said to develop breast cancer before they reach the age of 75 and the chances of survival are increased by early detection. By paying more attention to our health and possible symptoms, we can be better prepared if the time ever comes. Here, we break down some myths surrounding breast cancer and some steps that can be taken.

Myth 1: I won’t get breast cancer as my family has no history of breast cancer

There is a common misconception that only people with a family history of cancer develops the disease in their lifetime, and it is the same if it is the other way around. The truth is, the exact cause of breast cancer is not exactly known but it is commonly associated with mutations, or changes, in body cells that increases the risk of developing cancer.

It is true that these cell mutations can be inherited, which contributes to the myth that cancer is inherited. However, there are general risk factors among all women that are connected to developing breast cancer. They include alcohol consumption, body weight, smoking of cigarettes and diet. Having a family history increases the risk.

Myth 2: If I have breast cancer, I will feel a lump

The most common sign of breast cancer is a lump but did you know you can have breast cancer without experiencing lumps? You probably heard that this symptom is what you should look out for when self-assessing for breast cancer, a step recommended to take place monthly. But without this telling sign, what else could you look out for? Thickening or swelling of parts of the breast, redness or flaky skin and nipple discharge are among other signs.

And even though not all breast lumps are associated with cancer, you should seek a doctor to check any unusual lumps out, just to be safe.

Myth 3: Deodorant and antiperspirants cause breast cancer

We know how many people believe that deodorant or antiperspirant products can cause breast cancer due to its chemical products or how close it is applied to the breasts. This is not true as there is no strong scientific evidence that proves this claim. It is possible to experience skin irritation or infection when antiperspirants are applied to broken or infected underarm skin (such as after shaving), but it is doubtful that it contains cancer-causing substances. 

Myth 4: Breast cancer only happens to older women

Despite commonly found among women older than 40 years old with age being a risk factor, it is not totally surprising to find breast cancer in a young woman. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2015, 19.1% of breast cancer patients from 2011 to 2015 are below 44 years old.

Those with certain known risk factors may want to pay extra attention to their breasts. For example, those who have had relatives with breast cancer or early onset of menstruation. Overall, women of all ages should pay attention to their breasts and perform self-exams, consulting a doctor for any unusual signs.

Ladies aged 20 and above are advised to do a self-examination once a month while those aged 40 to 50 years are recommended to go for a mammogram yearly. For those above 50 years old, once every two years.

Myth 5: The treatment plans for breast cancer are all the same

You’ve heard of mastectomy for breast cancer, but do you know that there are many different ways to treat breast cancer? Depending on the patient’s stage of breast cancer, individual health situation, personal preferences and other factors, the treatment plan differs. Radiotherapy or a mastectomy commonly come to mind when talking about tackling cancer. Others include hormonal drugs and chemotherapy. Each personalised treatment is decided to best suit the patient’s needs, where each one demands varying financial costs.

How can we protect ourselves and be prepared?

Any case of cancer takes a toll on individuals and their families not just emotionally and psychologically but financially as well. With one in 15 women having the chance of developing breast cancer before the age of 75 in Singapore, it is normal to want to be protected financially if the time ever comes.

Getting FWD’s Cancer insurance plan can provide a 100% payout on all stages of cancer, including early stages. It just takes one health declaration without any medical examinations. To encourage better critical health decisions for customers, it also provides a professional second medical opinion to evaluate their diagnosis and treatment plans. Coping with the financial costs of cancer treatment can be a huge burden. The plan is comprehensive yet affordable, from as low as S$12¹ a month with a choice of coverage from S$50,000 to S$200,000.

By paying attention to the correct warning symptoms of breast cancer and having a financial peace of mind, you would be better equipped if the time ever comes. Find out more about how FWD Cancer insurance could help you, and get an FWD Cancer insurance quote in seconds.