Breast Cancer 101
What part of the body does breast cancer begin in?
Breast tissue cells
What imaging test is commonly used to screen for breast cancer?
A mammogram.
True or false: Having a family history is the only way someone can develop breast cancer.
False. Many people diagnosed have no known family history.
What color ribbon is associated with breast cancer awareness?
Wearing a bra causes breast cancer.
Myth
True or false: Men can develop breast cancer.
True
True or false: Breast cancer always causes pain.
False. Breast cancer may cause no pain or symptoms.
Name one lifestyle factor associated with breast cancer risk.
Alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, or excess body weight after menopause.
What month is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
October
Only older women can develop breast cancer.
Myth. Younger people can develop it too.
What does it mean when a cancer is malignant?
it is harmful and it can invade nearby tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Name one breast change that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional
A new lump, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or a new nipple change.
What two inherited genes are commonly associated with increased breast cancer risk?
BRCA1 and BRCA2.
What does the pink ribbon commonly symbolize?
Breast cancer awareness, support, and solidarity.
Breast cancer can occur without a noticeable lump
Fact
What is the term for cancer spreading from its original location to another part of the body?
Metastasis
At what age can women at average risk choose to begin annual mammograms under American Cancer Society guidelines?
Age 40.
True or false: Getting older is a risk factor for breast cancer.
True
What does the word survivor mean in the context of cancer?
A person who has received a cancer diagnosis; survivorship begins at diagnosis.
A person with no family history can still develop breast cancer.
Fact
What does the abbreviation DCIS stand for?
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive, early-stage form of breast cancer
True or false: A normal mammogram guarantees that breast cancer is absent
False. Mammograms can miss some cancers.
Does inheriting a harmful BRCA variant guarantee someone will develop breast cancer?
No. It increases risk but does not guarantee cancer.
What is one meaningful way to support someone undergoing breast cancer treatment?
Offer practical help, listen, provide meals or rides, or respect their preferences.
Finding breast cancer early can improve treatment outcomes.
Fact. Earlier detection often provides more treatment options, although outcomes vary