Breast Cancer FAQs - National Breast Cancer Foundation

Is hair dye linked to a higher risk of breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 14:38:16 +0000

Researchers have been studying the possible link between hair dye and cancer for a long time, but results have been inconsistent. A recent study, published by the National Institutes of Health in 2019, suggests that breast cancer risk increased with more frequent use of these chemical hair products. This study found that women who use permanent hair dye and chemical hair straighteners have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who don’t use these products.

Particularly, this study found that women who used hair straighteners at least every five to eight weeks were about 30% more likely to develop breast cancer. While the association between straightener use and breast cancer was similar in African American and white women, straightener use was much more common among African American women.

It is important to note we are exposed to many things that could potentially contribute to breast cancer, and it is unlikely that any single factor explains a woman’s risk. However, avoiding these chemicals might be one more thing women can do to reduce their risk of breast cancer.

Medically reviewed June 2023

Sources:
American Cancer Society
National Institutes of Health
Breastcancer.org

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Is dairy (milk) linked to a higher risk of breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 14:32:03 +0000

The U.S. dietary guidelines recommend women consume 3 cups of dairy daily (note: cups of dairy include foods containing dairy). The dairy group includes calcium-fortified soymilk, along with milk, cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt.

Current nutrition guidelines for dairy milk consumption could be viewed with some caution. There is limited evidence suggesting that higher intakes of dairy milk were associated with greater risk of breast cancer. The recent study (2020) suggests drinking dairy milk increases the risk of breast cancer. The link was clearest with milk calorie intake, with a 50 percent increased risk of women among the top 10 percent of milk drinkers compared to those among the bottom 10 percent. Risk was similar for both full-fat and low-fat versions and pre-menopausal and post-menopausal cases.

However, experts say to consider the research previous to this study (2020) before skipping out completely on milk or dairy products. Previous to this study, the American Institute for Cancer Research found no evidence linking dairy or dairy milk to breast cancer risk.

Dairy is a good source of calcium, which is important for building bones and teeth along with helping to maintain bone density, and a good source of protein which helps to build or repair muscle. Dairy foods also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and phosphorus. Nearly all milk is fortified with vitamin D, which helps promote absorption of calcium.

If you are unable to consume dairy or do not want to, other foods that contain calcium include: greens (collards, broccoli, kale, bok choy), edamame, soybeans, tofu, dried figs, fortified drinks such as orange juice, nuts/seeds such as almonds and sesame seeds and calcium fortified cereals.

Medically reviewed June 2023

Sources:
American Institute for Cancer Research
International Journal of Epidemiology
American Institute for Cancer Research

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Can breastfeeding reduce the risk of breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 16:02:38 +0000

Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, but requires breastfeeding to be continuous for a relatively long time.

Medically reviewed June 2023

Sources:
MD Anderson
NIH

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How often should I do a breast self exam (BSE)?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Give yourself a breast self-exam once a month. Look for any changes in breast tissue, such as changes in size, feeling a palpable lump, dimpling or puckering of the breast, inversion of the nipple, redness or scaliness of the breast skin, redness or scaliness of the nipple/areola area, or discharge of secretions from the nipple.

If you discover a persistent lump in your breast or any changes, it is very important that you see a physician immediately. Though 8 out of 10 lumps are benign, all require evaluation to confirm that they are not cancerous.

Women should perform their breast self exam 7-10 days after their menstrual period starts which is also when their breasts are the least tender and lumpy. If they are no longer menstruating, then she should select the same day of the month (first of the month for example) and mark it on the calendar to remind herself when to perform this self exam. What to look for is a change from last month’s exam to this month’s exam. It is not unusual to have lumpy or bumpy breasts.

All women should know the geography of their own breasts. If having trouble remembering, draw a diagram of where the lumps, bumps, grooves, and other findings are felt so that this can be used as a reminder from month to month. There is no added value in doing breast self exams more often than monthly. Also the findings may be different as well, in relationship to where a woman is in her menstrual cycle.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Does a family history of breast cancer put someone at a higher risk?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Although women who have a family history of breast cancer are in a higher risk group, most women who have breast cancer have no family history. Statistically only 5-10% of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of this disease.

However, when there is a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing and counseling may be recommended to determine if you and your family have a breast cancer gene mutation.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Are mammograms painful?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Mammography does compress the breasts and can sometimes cause slight discomfort for a very brief period of time. Patients who are sensitive should schedule their mammograms a week after their menstrual cycle so that the breasts are less tender. Your doctor may say it is fine to take acetaminophen an hour before the x-ray is performed to prevent discomfort too.

Do not ask the mammography technician to avoid tight compression of your breast. The tighter the compression, the clearer the mammogram images will be. This is because the compression is making the breast as thin as it can be.

If you’re experiencing an unreasonable amount of pain or discomfort, ask your mammographer if adjustments can be made.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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How does menstrual and reproductive history affect breast cancer risks?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Women who began their menstrual cycles before age 12, or have no biological children, or had their first child at 30 or older, or began menopause after 55 are at a higher risk. This means that research has proven that the number of menstrual cycles a woman has over time influences risk.

For women with several of these factors, their risk is higher than for those with just one of these risk factors.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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How often should I go to my doctor for a check-up?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

You should have a physical every year which should include a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam. If any unusual symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your scheduled visit, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. Your doctor might advise that you watch to see if the abnormality persists through your next menstrual period or they might recommend a diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound be done now.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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What kind of impact does stress have on breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Research studies have shown that factors such as traumatic events and losses can alter immune system functions, and when immune functions are altered cancer cells may have an opportunity to get themselves established within one’s body. What has been shown is that it is not the fact that a major life crisis has occurred but instead how the individual reacted to this event and coped (or didn’t cope). Therefore, identifying ways to keep your stress level in check is wise.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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What celebrities have or have had breast cancer?

glideadmin — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in her life. This statistic affects all women equally. You may have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer, but so does your doctor…and your hairdresser…and the big-name actress in your favorite movie. Rich or poor, famous or unknown, the disease treats everyone the same.

Just Like Us: Celebrities Speak Up About Breast Cancer

Of course, when celebrities are diagnosed with breast cancer, their cases receive more attention than most. However, even that publicity helps remind us that we’re really not all that different. Famous or not, upon receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, we all face the same struggles, the same emotions, and the same need for support.

Fame does give celebrities with breast cancer a bigger platform to speak up about the disease. Here are a few examples of famous people who have joined the effort and are helping spread awareness about breast cancer risks and the importance of early detection.

Joan Lunden

“Early detection is so crucial, I consider myself fortunate that I found this in the early stages and the prognosis is so promising.” – Joan Lunden

Joan Lunden is an accomplished author, journalist, television host, and a mother of seven.

Since 2014, she is also a breast cancer survivor.

Joan announced her diagnosis on ABC’s Good Morning America, a show she co-hosted for almost two decades. She’s spoken at length about her diagnosis and treatment in the media, on her blog, and through a book titled Had I Known. She’s also started ALIVE, a streaming video channel all about surviving breast cancer.

“I found this breast cancer community to be such an amazing, powerful, compassionate alliance.” – Joan Lunden

Sheryl Crow

“Someone like me shouldn’t be diagnosed with breast cancer, that’s what was going through my mind. I wasn’t thinking about a diagnosis. I was just doing what I was supposed to do, which was staying on top of my mammograms. It was a shock.” – Sheryl Crow

Rock star and nine-time Grammy Award-winner Sheryl Crow was diagnosed at age 44 with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer. It was discovered at an early stage through an annual mammogram, and after a lumpectomy and seven weeks of radiation therapy, she was declared cancer-free.

Sheryl did not have a family history of the disease or any significant risk factors, which is not unusual. 60-70% of people with breast cancer have no known pre-existing risk factors. This is why it is important it is for everyone to have an early detection plan, regardless of family history.

“I am a walking advertisement for early detection.” – Sheryl Crow

Christina Applegate

“I am a 36-year-old person with breast cancer, and not many people know that that happens to women my age or women in their 20s. This is my opportunity now to go out and fight as hard as I can for early detection.” – Christina Applegate

Christina Applegate found fame at an early age, starring as a teenager on the sitcom Married… with Children, and going on to act in everything from Broadway musicals to Anchorman movies.

She also became a breast cancer survivor in 2008 at the young age of 36.

Christina always knew she was at risk for developing breast cancer. Her mother, Nancy Priddy, was also diagnosed with breast cancer while in her thirties, and then again in her fifties. Because of that family history, Christina made the wise choice to follow an early detection plan that included more frequent screenings starting at age 30. The cancer was therefore detected in an early stage, when it is easier to treat.

However, her mother’s history and her own early-onset breast cancer led her to also undergo genetic testing for BRCA mutations. She tested positive for a BRCA1 gene mutation, meaning that, like her mother, she had a high probability of developing breast cancer again.

So, despite the cancer only being in one breast, Christina opted for a double mastectomy. Her knowledge of the BRCA gene mutation and the risks involved allowed her to make an educated decision, choosing a proactive treatment that significantly reduces the possibility of the breast cancer spreading or coming back.

According to Christina, an important part of her treatment and recovery was being able to receive support and advice from other breast cancer survivors—people she didn’t even know before her diagnosis.

“When you get diagnosed with cancer, there’s such a sense of loneliness, but we need to know as people going through this is that you’re not alone”. – Christina Applegate

Robin Roberts

“I can’t stress enough how important it is to get screened and checked for all cancers — and to do self breast-exams.” – Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts, another co-anchor of Good Morning America, discovered a lump during a breast self-exam in 2007. An ultrasound and biopsy confirmed that it was breast cancer—the more aggressive triple-negative kind. Treatment included a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Her mother encouraged her to “Make your mess your message.” Robin has been public about her cancer struggles, even winning awards for her courage in raising awareness. She’s a vocal proponent for regular breast self-exams, which is how 40% of all breast cancer cases are detected.

“I found my lump in a self-exam! Because I was familiar with my body and the lumps, I knew this one felt different. It was in a different place on my breast, and it was hard. If I hadn’t been doing self-exams, I wouldn’t have known that.” – Robin Roberts

Hoda Kotb

“Cancer survivors are blessed with two lives. There is your life before cancer, and your life after. I am here to tell you your second life is going to be so much better than the first.” – Hoda Kotb

Dateline NBC correspondent and Today show co-host Hoda Kotb was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, at age 43.

For women like Hoda, who have no family history of cancer, doctors recommend getting annual or biennial mammograms starting at age 40. However, at 43, Hoda admitted that she’d still never had a mammogram. The only reason her cancer was discovered is because her gynecologist noticed lumps in her breast during a routine checkup. Annual clinical exams are an important part of an early detection plan.

After a mastectomy and five years of hormone therapy, Hoda is cancer-free. She has said the experience made her stronger and more courageous. In fact, she attributes her job as a Today anchor to her cancer experience; surviving cancer gave her the confidence to fight for her dream job.

“I think after overcoming breast cancer, you sort of become fearless and somehow going up to your boss to talk about a possible promotion doesn’t seem like such a daunting task anymore.” – Hoda Kotb

Angelina Jolie

Note: Angeline Jolie did not have breast cancer, but underwent a preventative double mastectomy.

“I do not feel any less of a woman. I feel empowered that I made a strong choice that in no way diminishes my femininity.” – Angelina Jolie

Like Christina Applegate, Angelina Jolie knew she had a significant family history of breast cancer, and chose to undergo genetic testing. Like Christina, she tested positive for a BRCA1 mutation, and had a double mastectomy while in her thirties.

However, unlike Christina, Angelina chose the double mastectomy even though she didn’t have breast cancer in either breast.

The actress, producer, and director of films such as Unbroken decided to have the surgery in 2013 as a preventative measure. It reduced her risk of developing breast cancer from an estimated 87% down to approximately 5%.

Though some may consider preventative surgery extreme, it is an option for women who test positive for BRCA gene mutations and therefore have a much higher risk of developing breast cancer.

“It is not easy to make these decisions. But it is possible to take control and tackle head-on any health issue. You can seek advice, learn about the options and make choices that are right for you. Knowledge is power.” – Angelina Jolie

When it comes to breast cancer, these celebrities are just like us. We can learn from their stories and take action in our own lives. Here are things you can do:

Learn more about breast cancer, including its causes and treatments.
Find out whether you have any risk factors such as inherited gene mutations. Women at higher risk should generally start breast cancer screenings at a younger age, and be checked more often.
Start young. Monthly breast self-exams are encouraged for women of all ages. Even if you think you’re too young to develop breast cancer, learning what is normal for your body will help you quickly detect any future changes or lumps.
Volunteer to help spread the message of early detection.

Wherever you are in the journey, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to help you now.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Where can I find a breast cancer support group?

glideadmin — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

You don’t have to face breast cancer alone.

Having the support of others is an important part of successfully overcoming breast cancer. Studies indicate that participating in support groups, whether they are in person or online, where individuals both offer and receive help, is an effective approach in reducing the stress and anxiety that often accompanies a breast cancer diagnosis.

It’s OK to ask for support, and there are many groups out there willing to provide it to you at no cost.

Below are some free resources you can use to connect with breast cancer support groups. They include both online and in person support groups, where you can talk with a group or one-on-one.

Breast Cancer Support Groups

Some support groups focus on certain life stages, while others help you process specific experiences. All of them are designed to get you the help you need so you can move forward with your life.

National Breast Cancer Foundation Support Group

NBCF hosts monthly in-person and virtual support groups that provide a secure and welcoming environment for patients and survivors to engage in beneficial conversations.

What’s the group about?

NBCF organizes a monthly support group where cancer survivors are assisted by a support group facilitator to engage in open and honest communication during “caring and sharing” time. This facilitates healthy discussion and provides education to all participants.

Who’s the group for?

NBCF’s emotional support groups are right for any person that has somehow been involved with breast cancer, whether you are a breast cancer survivor who can provide support or whether you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, NBCF’s group setting creates a safe space for both patients and survivors to engage in healthy dialogue.

Learn more about NBCF’s support group.

The Cancer Support Community

The Cancer Support Community (CSC) provides a range of professionally-led support programs in more than 175 locations worldwide, that aim to help cancer patients and family members, friends, loved ones, and caregivers of cancer patients.

What are the support groups about?

These programs, including support groups, yoga classes, and educational workshops, are offered at no charge to anyone who has been impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

Who’s this for?

CSC support programs cater to people of all ages and life situations, including children, teens, and families affected by cancer.

The Cancer Support Community (CSC) offers free support groups in a number of cities around the country.

If you don’t live near a participating city, CSC also has online support groups led by licensed professionals.

You can also get support via their cancer support helpline.

Learn more about cancer-related support groups at cancersupportcommunity.org.

Stupid Cancer Support Groups

Since cancer is less common among young adults, younger cancer patients can feel even more isolated. Stupid Cancer has different types of programs to empower all adolescents and young adults impacted by cancer.

What are the support groups about?

Stupid Cancer’s programs are designed to help young adults and adolescents connect with others and gain information and resources to improve their quality of life with and after cancer. Their programs include:

CancerCon: An annual conference for patients, survivors, caregivers and professionals.
Meetups: Social gatherings bringing adolescents and young adults together, offered both in person and online .
Discussion Series: Led by trained professionals, participants can engage in sustained, meaningful conversations with each other in a structured setting.

Who’s this for?

Adolescent and young adult cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Learn more about their support groups at stupidcancer.org

American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery Program

The American Cancer Society offers one-on-one online support through the Reach To Recovery program. It has been helping people for more than 50 years to cope with their breast cancer experience.

What’s the program about?

Newly diagnosed breast cancer patients are paired with breast cancer survivor volunteers. The support groups volunteers, which are breast cancer survivors, give breast cancer patients a space to express their feelings, talk about their concerns and ask questions to someone that has gone through similar experiences.

How does the program work?

Patients can create an online profile on the website or the mobile app and they will be matched with a volunteer who has experienced a similar type of breast cancer, stage and treatment.

Patients can also choose how to connect, whether it’s online through a chat, via phone or messages.

Who’s this program for?

Patients coping with breast cancer, as early as the initial breast cancer diagnosis and for as long as breast cancer remains a personal concern to them.

Learn more at the Reach To Recovery website.

American Cancer Society Cancer Survivors Network

The Cancer Survivors Network is a peer support community for people impacted by cancer that are looking for a safe place to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences.

What’s the support group about?

This network offers cancer-specific online support groups via discussion boards and a chat room where you can talk with other cancer survivors.

Who’s this support group for?

Cancer patients, cancer survivors, caregivers, families and friends.

To access the network, register online at csn.cancer.org.

GriefShare Support Groups

GriefShare is a grief recovery support group where you can find help and healing for the hurt of losing a loved one.

What’s the support group about?

GriefShare is a support group for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one, they offer seminars and support groups led by people who understand what it feels like to lose a loved one.

How does the support group work?

GriefShare groups meet on a weekly basis. The group sessions help you face the challenges and move toward rebuilding your life.

Each GriefShare session has three elements:

Video seminar with experts
Support group discussion with a specific focus
Personal study and reflection

Group members also receive encouraging daily email messages for a year. The short messages inspire and provide practical information for those grieving the loss of a loved one.

Who’s the support group for?

GriefShare is for people who are grieving the death of a family member or friend.

There are thousands of local groups worldwide.

Find a GriefShare support group near you at griefshare.org.

METAvivor

METAvivor focuses on supporting women and men who are battling Stage 4 breast cancer or metastatic breast cancer.

What’s the support group about?

METAvivor offers Peer-To-Peer Support Groups that enable patients with metastatic breast cancer to share advice, encouragement and challenges they face.

Members can also share information about treatment centers, explore local resources, and connect with others who are on similar journeys.

How does the support group work?

METAvivor’s peer-led support program meetings are carried out in community spaces rather than medical facilities.

The sessions are unstructured, enabling everyone to share their thoughts on a wide range of topics freely.

Who’s the support group for?

METAvivor’s support group is exclusively for metastatic breast cancer patients who serve both as members and leaders.

Find a METAvivor Peer-to-Peer support group at metavivor.org.

Most breast centers have their own breast cancer support groups that meet monthly.

Ask your patient navigator for additional support resources.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Is there a link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:21 +0000

Yes, there is. HRT was added to the carcinogenic list by the American Cancer Society in the early 2000s. It is recommended that women with known risks not be placed on HRT to control menopausal symptoms. They should instead seek other safer alternatives.

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Can physical activity reduce the risk of breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:20 +0000

Exercise boosts the immune system and helps you to keep your weight in check. With as little as three hours of exercise per week, or about 30 minutes a day, a woman can begin to lower her risk of breast cancer. This doesn’t require going to a gym either. Power walking is more than sufficient!

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Can a healthy diet help to prevent breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:20 +0000

A nutritious, low-fat diet (30 grams or less) with plenty of fruits and green and orange vegetables can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. A high-fat diet increases the risk because fat triggers estrogen production that can fuel tumor growth.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Does smoking cause breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:20 +0000

Smoking is a confirmed risk factor for developing many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Additionally, second hand smoke is also a risk factor for cancer. So if you are a smoker, help yourself in a significant way and join a smoking cessation program to help you stop. The day you stop smoking the healing can begin and each week in which you are smoke-free, you give yourself increasing advantages for a healthier life. Smoking also directly contributes to heart and other lung diseases, too.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Can drinking alcohol increase the risk of breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:20 +0000

Moderation is key. One drink per day has been shown to slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. Having more than one drink per day has shown to be a more significant risk factor, and the alcohol content doesn’t matter: wine, beer or a mixed drink. Alcohol also increases estrogen in your bloodstream.

Although we know that more than one drink per day increases risks, to date there are no studies that demonstrate directly that the more a person drinks, the greater their risk for cancer. And in some cases, drinking one glass of wine a day can offer heart-health benefit. If you drink alcohol, this is an important topic to discuss with your doctor so that you will know what limits are best for you to observe.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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Is there a link between oral contraceptives and breast cancer?

Amy Kryzak — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 04:49:20 +0000

There is an increased risk of breast cancer for women who have been using birth control pills for more than five years. However due to the low amount of hormones in birth control pills today, the risk is relatively small. But if a young woman has a significant family history of breast cancer, her gynecologist may recommend taking a break for a year from the pill at the 5-year time frame then resuming again for another 5 years. Although evidence-based research data does not offer strong support for this standard of care, it has nevertheless become an increasingly common practice.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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