One of the biggest myths or misconceptions about breast cancer is the belief that removing the breast entirely is the best treatment—and that doing so will prevent recurrence and improve survival. However, years of research and clinical data have shown that this is not true. Lumpectomy followed by radiation is considered equally effective as a mastectomy in treating breast cancer. There is always a possibility of cancer returning, even after a mastectomy, because it’s impossible to remove 100% of the breast tissue—some tissue is always left behind, and cancer can return in that area. Our field widely accepts that lumpectomy with radiation is equivalent to mastectomy in terms of both local treatment and survival outcomes.
Another common misconception is that opting for a mastectomy means you won’t need chemotherapy. Unfortunately, that’s also not true. The decision to undergo chemotherapy is based more on the type and aggressiveness of the tumor rather than the type of surgery chosen. Medications like chemotherapy help prevent the cancer from returning elsewhere in the body, and that decision is made independently of surgical choices.
There are additional myths—such as the idea that older women should stop getting screened for breast cancer. This isn’t accurate either. Women who are healthy, active, and willing to undergo some form of treatment—whether that’s a pill, medication, or a minor outpatient procedure—should continue regular screenings. If you are in good health and would want treatment if breast cancer were found, then you should keep getting annual mammograms.
I look forward to meeting you. Please visit us at basscancercenter.com to learn more about me and how to schedule a visit.
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