There are a number of myths about breast cancer, including the belief that a diagnosis will always lead to death. But advances in mammography that help detect cancer earlier and advances in treatment options have dramatically increased the survival rates for breast cancer.

As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Christopher Menendez, M.D., a breast surgeon on the medical staff of Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano, helps dispel several myths surrounding breast cancer.

Myth: Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk.

Fact: “There’s really only about 10 percent to 15 percent of breast cancers that are related to a genetic component,” Dr. Menendez explains. When looking at genetic risk, doctors are looking for a pattern of young (under age 50) diagnoses, or premenopausal breast cancers. But because the majority of breast cancers are not tied to genetics, all women should be sure to have their annual mammograms after age 40.

Myth: Small-breasted women have less chance of getting breast cancer.

Fact: There is no known connection between breast size and risk. However, women who are overweight may have larger breasts as a result. Those who are overweight produce more estrogen, and increased exposure to estrogen can lead to an increased risk, especially for postmenopausal women, Dr. Menendez says. In addition, women with dense breasts on mammography have a slightly increased risk.

Myth: Cell phones and deodorant cause breast cancer.

While a common myth, Dr. Menendez says cell phones and deodorant have not been shown to increase risk. “The underlying cause of breast cancer is never from a constriction or something outside the body,” he adds. Prior to your mammogram, you will be instructed not to wear deodorant to your appointment — but this is only because deodorant flakes can obscure the image.

Myth: Mammograms cause breast cancer.

The radiation from mammograms is a very low dose, Dr. Menendez explains. For perspective, he says, if you travel by plane from New York City to Los Angeles, you’ll be exposed to almost twice as much radiation on that trip as you would during a mammogram.

Celebrating Life and Fall Fashion Show

Date: Thursday, Oct. 15

Place: Saks Fifth Avenue, The Shops at Willow Bend, 2401 Dallas Parkway, Plano

Event Schedule:

4:30 to 5:30 p.m.: Physician panel featuring breast cancer specialists on the Baylor Plano medical staff

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.: Reception

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Fashion show featuring breast cancer survivors

Sign up now!