5 Surprising Facts About Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know

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Think breast cancer always starts with a lump? Think again. Discover 5 surprising facts about breast cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, and prevention advice from an MD Anderson doctor.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women around the world — yet there are still many myths and lesser-known truths about the disease.

To get to the bottom of things, we spoke to Therese Bevers, M.D., the medical director of MD Anderson's Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center. Here are five surprising facts about breast cancer that can change your perception about early detection and prevention.

1. Breast Cancer Does Not Always Begin With a Lump

A lump is generally the indicator mark of breast cancer — but really, many cases don't begin this way. At first, breast cancer often shows no symptoms at all.

"That's why we recommend having an annual mammogram starting at age 40," says Dr. Bevers.

Should symptoms be present, be aware of symptoms beyond a lump, including:

• Swelling in or around the breast, collarbone, or underarm
• Red or thickened skin looking like orange peel (peau d'orange)
• Breast heat or tingling
• Nipple alteration like dimpling, retraction, or scaling
• Inappropriate nipple discharge

If you notice any of these, consult your doctor right away — even if you don't feel anything.

2. A Male Family Member With Breast Cancer May Raise Your Risk

Breast cancer is not just a woman's disease — and if you have a close male relative (a father, brother, or son) with breast cancer, it could mean you're at more genetic risk.

 "It's most likely due to a mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, which increases your lifetime risk of developing breast cancer significantly," says Dr. Bevers.

If this holds true for you, talk with your physician regarding genetic testing and high-risk cancer screening approaches.

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3. Your Weight Matters More Than You Know

Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

"It creates an inflammatory state in the body, and inflammation is suspected to be the basis for most cancers," says Dr. Bevers.

To reduce your risk:

• Eat a plant-rich diet: Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Be physically active: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, along with strength training two times per week
• Maintaining healthy weight can lower your risk not only for breast cancer but for more than 10 types of cancer.

4. You Don't Need to Do Breast Self-Exams

Forget the old recommendation of monthly breast self-exams. As Dr. Bevers states, there's no routine to follow — what matters is being breast aware.

"Women who didn't do formal self-exams, but just paid attention to changes, detected cancer just as early," she explains.

Build breast awareness by regularly examining how your breasts look and feel:

• Stand in front of a mirror with your arms up
• Look for puckering, dimpling, or other visual changes
• Pay attention to how your breasts feel during everyday activities
• Any new or unusual change? Report it to your doctor immediately.

5. Alcohol Use Increases Your Breast Cancer Risk

Even small amounts of alcohol can raise your breast cancer risk. That’s because alcohol is a toxin that your body breaks down into acetaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

"Alcohol can also cause inflammation and alter your gut biome, which affects your immune system," adds Dr. Bevers.

To reduce your cancer risk:

• If possible, avoid alcohol
• If you do drink alcohol, reduce as much as you can
• Remember: The less you drink, the less risk

While breast cancer is common, knowledge is power. Awareness of lesser-known risk factors and symptoms will keep you ahead in proactive action for early detection and prevention.

Start with annual mammograms starting at age 40, heed family history, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle to minimize your risk.

Need more information? Visit [MD Anderson Cancer Center] or consult your individual risk factors and prevention strategies with your healthcare provider.