Breast cancer is a prevalent disease. While cases are expected to rise in the upcoming years, many myths surround the condition. There's a persistent myth that breast pressing or squeezing can cause breast cancer. This article addresses this misconception and provides accurate information about breast cancer, its causes, and treatment and prevention.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in breast tissue. It can occur in both women and men, though it's far more common in women. Breast cancer typically begins in the cells of the lobules (milk-producing glands) or the ducts (passages that carry milk to the nipple). In rarer cases, it can start in other breast tissues.

Types of Breast Cancer

There are several types of breast cancer:

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Abnormal cells in the milk ducts that haven't spread beyond the ducts.
Invasive ductal carcinoma: Cancer that starts in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding breast tissue.
Invasive lobular carcinoma: Cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and invades nearby tissue.
Inflammatory breast cancer: A rare, aggressive form where cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin, causing inflammation.
Triple-negative breast cancer: Cancer cells that lack oestrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 proteins.
HER2-positive breast cancer: Cancer cells with excess HER2 protein, typically more aggressive but responsive to targeted therapies.

Causes of Breast Cancer

The exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:

Genetic factors: Mutations in certain genes, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase breast cancer risk.
Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed after age 50.
Family history: Having close relatives with breast cancer increases one's risk.
Personal history: Previous breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases can increase risk.
Hormonal factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, or long-term use of hormone replacement therapy can increase risk.

Lifestyle factors:

Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Alcohol consumption
Smoking

Radiation exposure: Previous radiation treatment to the chest area can increase risk.

Dense breast tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer.

Does Breast Pressing Cause Breast Cancer?

The short answer is no; breast pressing or squeezing does not cause breast cancer. This myth likely stems from a misunderstanding of how cancer develops.

Scientific Evidence:

No studies have shown a causal link between physical manipulation of breast tissue and cancer development.
Cancer is primarily caused by genetic mutations and changes in cell growth regulation, not external physical pressure.
Mammograms, which involve compressing the breast tissue, are a crucial tool in early breast cancer detection and have not been shown to increase cancer risk.

Why the Myth Persists

Several myths persist when it comes to breast cancer:

Confusion with breast trauma: While severe breast trauma can cause changes in breast tissue, these changes are not cancerous and are not associated with increased cancer risk.
Misinterpretation of breast self-exams: Regular self-exams are recommended for early detection, not prevention. Finding a lump during a self-exam doesn't mean the exam caused the lump.
Cultural beliefs: In some cultures, there are traditional beliefs about breast manipulation affecting health, which may contribute to the persistence of this myth.

The Importance of Breast Awareness

While breast pressing doesn't cause cancer, being aware of your breasts' normal look and feel is important. This awareness can help detect any changes that might indicate a problem early.

Regular Screening

Healthcare professionals recommend:
Monthly breast self-exams
Annual clinical breast exams
As recommended by your healthcare provider, mammograms typically start at age 40-50, depending on individual risk factors.

Prevention of breast cancer

Certain prevention techniques can avert the danger of breast cancer:

Regular Screening: Mammograms, Clinical breast exams and breast self-exams
Lifestyle Modifications: maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking
Healthy Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in saturated fats
Breastfeeding
Limiting Hormone Therapy
Genetic Testing
Preventive Medications: For high-risk individuals (e.g., Tamoxifen, Raloxifene)
Preventive Surgery: For very high-risk individuals (e.g., prophylactic mastectomy)
Stress Management
Avoiding Environmental Toxins
Regular Check-ups

Conclusion

Breast pressing or squeezing does not cause breast cancer. The development of breast cancer is a complex process involving genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. While we can't control all risk factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our bodies, and following recommended screening guidelines are the best ways to reduce risk and detect breast cancer early if it does occur.

Reference links:

https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/why-does-my-breast-hurt-when-i-press-it
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470