Busting the big myths: 7 things women get wrong about breast & oral cancer

In a world buzzing with health information, myths relating to breast and oral cancers can incite undue alarm. In the worst cases, even delay life-saving action. Yet, there is a hopeful reality. Armed with the awareness to act, women can take control while advancements in detection and treatment pave the way for better survival, explains Dr Mohit Agarwal, Principal Director and HOD Department of Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital.
In a country like India, where misconceptions led by cultural stigmas deepen the confusion, it doesn't just mislead but rather quietly sabotages women’s health. It not only leads to missed screenings but also to late diagnosis. With approximately 2 million new breast cancer being reported annually, clearing the fog of misinformation is critical to saving lives. By confronting these common misconceptions, women can move from hesitation to action, embracing tools like self-exams and early detection to rewrite their health stories.

Nothing could be further from the truth. While risk does rise with age, cases in women under 50 are surging, accounting for about 16% of diagnoses worldwide. In India, younger women face this reality too, often dismissing symptoms like lumps as "nothing serious" due to the belief it's an "old woman's disease." Early awareness could be the difference between a simple treatment and a tougher battle.

Think again. Around 85% of breast cancer cases hit women with no family ties or genetic mutations. Lifestyle factors such as obesity or limited exercise play a bigger role, creating a "pro-carcinogenic" environment in the body. Yet, in regions like South Asia, low awareness leaves many unprepared, with surveys showing over 80% of women unable to name a single risk factor. Regular check-ups can bridge this gap, offering hope through prevention.

Most lumps are benign, like cysts, and cancerous ones often start painless. This myth about painful or cancerous lumps fuels panic or complacency. In India, it ties into stigmas where women hide changes, fearing "bad karma" or contagion. The key here is to evaluate any change professionally, as early detection boosts curability dramatically.

A classic fallacy. The low radiation in mammograms poses minimal risk, far outweighed by their role in spotting tumors early. Still, uptake lags in India at just 7%, amid fears they're "useless" or harmful. As biosimilars and tech advance, screenings will become more accessible, promising wider protection.

Another commonly mistaken belief. While tobacco hikes risk, HPV infections drive cases in non-smokers, including younger women. In India, where oral cancer ranks among the most prevalent malignancies, lesser-known risk factors like excessive alcohol or prolonged sun exposure often go unrecognized, delaying critical diagnoses. Fortunately, quitting harmful habits, even later in life, dramatically reduces risk and offers a powerful step toward prevention along with a hope for healthier futures.

Early signs such as white patches or ulcers are often silent. This delays care, especially in rural India where myths blame dental fillings or "curses." Routine dental checks catch these subtly, turning potential tragedy into treatable issues.

Far from it. Early breast cancer boasts 98% five-year survival; oral cancer fares well, too, with prompt intervention. In India, stigma paints them fatal, deterring help, but education and therapies are shifting outcomes.
In the end, these myths thrive on whispers, but science shouts louder. By staying vigilant and embracing screenings, women can rewrite their stories. Talk to a doctor today; tomorrow's breakthroughs depend on today's actions.