The truth about breast cancer isn’t always straightforward. There can be confusion when it comes to treating it and to an individual’s risk for developing it.

Novant Health is here to clear up common myths and share ways to help lower your risk.

Fact or Fiction? Sugar feeds cancer.

Fiction. Sugar, fat, and protein are all broken down into energy. While overall diet matters, sugar alone does not fuel or worsen cancer.

Fact or Fiction? Deodorants and antiperspirants cause breast cancer.

Fiction. There is no scientific evidence linking underarm products (including those with aluminum) to breast cancer.

Fact or Fiction? You shouldn’t wear deodorant because it’s dangerous.

Fiction. Skipping deodorant before a mammogram isn’t about health — it’s about image clarity. Aluminum in underarm products can show up as white specks on your scan, mimicking signs of cancer. For the most accurate results, avoid using underarm products the day of your screening.

Fact or Fiction? You can take steps to reduce your risk.

Fact. While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, healthy habits can help:

Get 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol

For more ways to separate myth from fact, take Novant Health’s breast cancer and mammogram quiz — and if you’re 40 or older, don’t forget to schedule your mammogram.

Schedule your mammogram