By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Takoradi, Oct. 8, GNA – Dr Obed Adjei, an Oncologist, has dispelled the misconception that wearing tight bras, using deodorants or other commonly blamed personal-care products can cause breast cancer.
He said such misinformation had no scientific basis and could create unnecessary fear, while distracting people from the real risk factors associated with the disease.
Dr Adjei explained that breast cancer resulted from abnormal changes in breast cells, with a combination of genetic, environmental, reproductive and lifestyle factors contributing to the risk.
He said inherited genetic mutations, particularly changes in genes, could significantly increase an individual’s risk, although most people diagnosed with breast cancer did not necessarily have a family history of the disease.
Other recognised risk factors included age, obesity, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, previous exposure to radiation and some hormonal and reproductive factors.
He urged the public to rely on qualified health professionals and credible medical information rather than myths circulating on social media and through word of mouth.
He also encouraged women to breastfeed where possible and to pay attention to their breast health, particularly if they had a strong family history of breast or related cancers.
Dr Adjei stressed that early detection was critical to improving breast cancer outcomes.
He said breast cancer was not automatically a death sentence, stressing that many cases could be successfully treated, particularly when detected early.
He urged patients diagnosed with breast cancer to adhere to their treatment plans and avoid abandoning proven medical treatment for untested herbal or other remedies.
Dr Adjei urged Ghanaians to reject myths about the causes of breast cancer, instead sought professional medical advice whenever they noticed changes in their breasts.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter Mildred Siabi-Mensah