October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so here are symptoms keep an eye on, how to get care and advice and myths about breast cancer.
Breast cancer charities like CoppaFeel! are reminding people to check their chest area for lumps or other symptoms. Early detection is key.
Symptoms
The most common symptom for cancer that people think about is a lump on your breast. While this can be correct, not all breast lumps are cancerous, some could be cysts or hormonal changes. There are several other more distinct symptoms to look out for.
To self-check, raise your arm above your head and run two fingers over each side of your chest. Make sure to check every part of your skin, so under your breasts, under your arms and your collarbone. If you are concerned about having symptoms, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Myths
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer. All information below is from the National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc.
Myth: Only women get breast cancer.
Truth: Anyone can get breast cancer, so everyone should check their chest area.
Myth: You’re more likely to get breast cancer with bigger breasts.
Truth: While bigger breasts can be harder to examine, breast density, obesity and lifestyle choices raise the risk of breast cancer.
Myth: Injuries can cause breast cancer.
Truth: Injuries can cause bruising or a breast haemmorage, but not cancer.
Myth: Only older women get breast cancer.
Truth: Most cases are within middle-aged women but nine per cent of women under 45 in the United States get breast cancer. It is always important to self-examine and speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.
Myth: Bras can cause breast cancer.
Truth: Underwire bras, and any other bras, do not cause breast cancer. Bras that are too small can cause pain and swelling which could be confused for breast cancer. Carrying your phone in your bra does not cause breast cancer either.
Myth: Family history raises your chances of getting breast cancer.
Truth: There is some truth to this, but only five to ten per cent of women who had breast cancer had family history of it as well. Lifestyle choices and age are more likely to increase someone’s odds.
Support and care
There is always support for people with cancer and their loved ones. Charity events, coffee mornings and phone lines all provide support for those in need of it.
In the Forth Valley area the Forth Valley Royal Hospital’s oncology department are available through the week from 8am to 5pm. And Maggie’s Forth Valley is a treatment centre 10 minutes away.
Stirling student Adara’s mother had breast cancer in 2015. She had a mammogram, (a breast scan) a biopsy, a lymph node removal, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She said district nurses and Macmillan Cancer Support were some of her greatest support systems during that time.
You can find local cancer support services on the Macmillan Cancer Support website. Coffee mornings are gatherings that raise money to support people living with cancer. Calling the phone number (0141 287 2903) is also helpful for emotional, practical and financial support. The lines are open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.
Cancer Research UK also provides support as well as fund and conduct research.
Charities have further information on getting support and care on their websites too.
Featured image credit: CoppaFeel! Instagram
Third year journalism student. 2025/2026 Lifestyle and Comment Editor at Brig. Published in The Yucatán Times, Mi Campeche and The Mourning Paper. Host of From the 40s with Air3Radio.
