Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, but it remains shrouded in myths and misconceptions that cause confusion and fear. These can distract from proven facts, preventing people from taking steps to reduce their risk or seek timely care. Accuracy is imperative to improving early detection and supporting those impacted by the disease.
Constanza Cocilovo, M.D., FACS, a board-certified and fellowship-trained breast surgeon, is the medical director of Inova Breast Surgery. From her practice in Fairfax, Dr. Cocilovo sheds light on breast cancer, helping separate fact from fiction, right on time for February, National Cancer Prevention Month and National Self-Check Month.
Test your breast cancer IQ and then click here for answers and a deeper dive.
True or False:
- All breast cancers are the same.
- Women with no family history of breast cancer are not at risk.
- Breast cancer always shows as a lump.
- Breast cancer is more common in people who have bigger breasts.
- Certain bras cause cancer.
Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Men v. Women
The risk of breast cancer is much lower in men than in women. The lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000 for men in the U.S. compared to 1 in 8 for women in the U.S.
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.
