The experts—Medical Physicist Dr. Theophilus Sackey, Cancer Epidemiologist Dr. Adolf Kofi Awua, and Medical Imaging Expert Dr. Shiraz Issahaku—made these statements during an interview with The Mirror in Accra last Tuesday, ahead of the celebration of Pink Month in October. The scientists, who are affiliated with the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI), debunked five common myths while discussing the true causes, symptoms, and treatment options for breast cancer.
Myth 1: Breast Cancer is Contagious
Dr. Sackey addressed the misconception that breast cancer is contagious, explaining that this myth stems from misunderstandings about how cancer develops. "Cancer is not an infectious disease; it results from genetic mutations in a person's cells influenced by lifestyle, family history, and environmental factors. Unlike infectious diseases that spread through contact or bodily fluids, cancer cells cannot be transmitted from one person to another," he stated. He noted that extensive research has found no evidence supporting the idea of cancer transmission, warning that such misconceptions can lead to stigma and fear among those diagnosed with the disease. He recounted instances where patients faced eviction or isolation upon their cancer diagnosis, urging the public to refrain from spreading misinformation.
Myth 2: Mastectomy Prevents Breast Cancer Recurrence
Dr. Awua addressed the belief that a mastectomy guarantees that a person will never develop breast cancer again. He explained that while mastectomy is crucial for advanced-stage breast cancer or in women with a significant family history, there remains a risk of cancer recurrence in nearby tissues, including lymph nodes. "Even with a mastectomy, residual cells and lymph nodes can remain and potentially become re-infected," he cautioned. He emphasized the importance of using radiation therapy and pre- and post-chemotherapy treatments to destroy any remaining infected cells and tissues.
Myth 3: Deodorants and Antiperspirants Cause Breast Cancer
Dr. Awua also addressed concerns regarding deodorants and antiperspirants as potential causes of breast cancer. While some products contain heavy metals like aluminum, he stated there is no evidence that these metals can damage DNA or increase cancer risk.
Myth 4: Only Women Can Get Breast Cancer
Dr. Issahaku clarified that breast cancer is not exclusive to women. "While it is more prevalent in women, men can also develop the disease, particularly if they have a family history or other risk factors," he noted. He emphasized the importance of awareness and screening for all genders, as early detection can improve treatment outcomes.
Myth 5: All Lumps in the Breast are Cancerous
Dr. Issahaku explained that not every lump in the breast is cancerous, as some may be harmless. However, he advised that any lump should be examined regularly by a healthcare professional, as there is no guarantee it won’t become cancerous over time. He added that research indicates one in eight women and one in 100 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
Causes of Breast Cancer
Addressing the true causes of breast cancer, Dr. Awua explained that it occurs when the body’s cells begin dividing uncontrollably, often due to DNA damage. "The causes of this damage can range from genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, to family history and environmental exposure to certain chemicals or radiation." He likened the situation to a classroom without an effective teacher, where chaos ensues. "When the body’s regulatory systems fail, cells begin to divide uncontrollably, leading to cancer," he said. Dr. Awua also noted that lifestyle factors—such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption—can contribute to the disease. "Women in their late 50s and beyond should be particularly vigilant, as the body’s ability to regulate cell growth and repair decreases with age," he added.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Dr. Sackey discussed the symptoms of breast cancer, noting that signs such as lumps, changes in breast size, nipple discharge, redness, pain, or thickened areas should not be overlooked. He emphasized that many symptoms typically appear only after the cancer has progressed and highlighted the importance of early detection. For all cancers, he provided the acronym CAUTION to represent key symptoms:
C for Change in bowel or bladder habits,
A for a sore that does not heal,
U for Unusual bleeding or discharge,
T for Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere,
I for or Indigestion or difficulty swallowing,
O for Obvious change in wart or mole,
N for Nagging cough or hoarseness.
Treatment Options
Regarding treatment options, Dr. Sackey explained that the treatment plan depends on the cancer stage and the patient’s overall health, with stage four being the most advanced. Dr. Issahaku noted that breast cancer staging considers several factors, including the type of cancer, tumor size and location, and whether cancer has spread to other areas. "I urge the public to undergo annual breast cancer screenings for early detection. When detected early, a lumpectomy can be performed to remove any lumps without affecting the whole breast," he stated. As cancer progresses, treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation, and possibly full mastectomies. Hormone therapy might also be part of the treatment plan to block hormones like estrogen and progesterone from interacting with cancer cells, thereby slowing the disease's growth.
Credit:Graphic Online.
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