Do you #WatchForChange? For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re shutting down unhelpful myths so you know exactly what to look out for when you’re watching for change.
Did you know that 1 in 7 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime*? It’s a shocking statistic that many of us aren’t aware of. But what are the symptoms of breast cancer, and what should you be looking for when checking your boobs?
To put the myths surrounding breast cancer to bed, permanently, we revisit our conversation with the inspiring CoppaFeel! Boobettes who have (in one way or another) encountered breast cancer.
So from lumps and bumps to pain and mobile phones, here are 5 breast cancer myths we’re here to bust.
MYTH: If you feel pain in your boobs, it’s not cancer.
BUSTED: There can be lots of reasons why you may feel pain in your boobs. It can sometimes be linked to your menstrual cycle, as well as your hormones. But if you do notice any unusual changes, including pain, then definitely book an appointment with your doctor or nurse to get it checked out.
MYTH: Breast cancer only affects women
BUSTED: Did you know that almost 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year*? It’s important to know that breast cancer isn’t a women-only disease, breast tissue is all the same – whatever your gender. So guys, get checking your pecs!
MYTH: Phone radiation causes cancer
BUSTED: There’s currently no evidence that suggests mobile phones cause cancer. So although we wouldn’t recommend keeping your phone in your bra on a night out, there’s nothing to say this isn’t safe.
MYTH: If you’ve got no family history of cancer, it won’t happen to you
BUSTED: Less than 10% of breast cancers are caused by family history. So even if no one in your family has ever been affected by cancer, it doesn’t completely rule yourself out. Stay safe by checking yourself regularly.
MYTH: If there isn’t a lump, it’s not cancer
BUSTED: There are many symptoms to look out for when it comes to breast cancer. From swelling to nipple discharge and even skin rashes, any changes you notice are always worth getting checked out. And that’s why it’s so important to regularly touch and feel your boobs, so you know what’s normal for you.
Not sure about the signs and symptoms you need to be looking out for? Check out CoppaFeel!’s Self-Checkout guide to knowing your boobs better.
*All data supplied from CoppaFeel!
Don’t forget to #WatchForChange
We all lead busy lives, but for a free reminder to check your boobs and pecs, text BOOB CREW to 70300 (T&Cs) and CoppaFeel! will message you each month with a handy prompt to watch for change!
Do your bit
Ready to join us and raise £100,000 this BCAM? Discover how you can do your bit by checking out our limited-edition causes collection, which includes some of our pinkest bestsellers and products that give back!