Breast Cancer Myths And Facts

(updated post)

My friend Su called to ask how I am. As we chatted, she asked me if she could help me with anything. I said, "Well, you can buy a Jellirrific! mould." She said that she doesn't make desserts that much. I told her that it's for the breast cancer association. With that, she said of course she'll buy a mould.

I told Hub what a friend Su is. He was surprised that I haven't asked any friends. I haven't, because I don't want to be pushy or get my friends to 'buy' a vote for me. I'm even delaying buying a vase until after the competition, I told Hub, because I don't want to be seen as buying my own vote. Hub gave me an incredulous look.  He reminded me that this thing isn't about my 'creations'. It's about raising funds for the breast cancer association. "It isn't about your jellies, it's how much they raise for breast cancer patients!" Oh. That's why he's the one bringing the dough home.

Story short, I urge you to buy a mould. Today is the last day to give towards the Breast Cancer Association Of Malaysia. You don't have to vote for me (but I hope you do).  The mould, btw, is very beautiful and is designed by Nick Munro, the award-winning British designer famous for turning bed springs into egg cups. RSP is very highly regarded, kind of like the Royal Doulton of Malaysia. I kid you not and this is not ass-kissing. I wouldn't have taken on the Challenge if I didn't like the products or the cause.

Updated post 1/11/11.

Two nights ago I talked to a dear friend who lost her best friend and her sister to breast cancer within the last 5 years. I don't know much about breast cancer and although the Jelliriffic! Challenge is over, I'd like to share some basic myths and truths about breast cancer that I've learnt from here: Breast Cancer Foundation Inc, USA and here: About.com

1. Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer.

    Truth: 8 out of 10 breast lumps are benign,or not cancerous. However, you should still consult the doctor and have regular check ups.

2. Myth: Men do not get breast cancer.

    Truth: On the contrary, men do get breast cancer although the rate is lower than women.

3. Myth: A mammogram can cause breast cancer to spread.

    Truth: A mammogram is one of the best tools to detect early breast cancer. The pressure from mammograms and mammograms DO NOT cause cancer to spread.

4. Myth: Having a family history of breast cancer means you will get it.

    Truth: You will not necessarily get the disease but you are in a higher risk group so you should have regular mammograms.

5. Myth: Breast cancer is contagious.

    Truth: Outright myth.

6. Myth: If I don't have mutated BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes I am not at risk.

    Truth: It is not an absolute correlation that alterations in these genes can predispose you to an increase risk of the disease. Only 5 to 10% of people with breast cancer have these mutations.

7. Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants can cause breast cancer.

    Truth: Researchers at the National Cancer Institute say there is no conclusive evidence to link antiperspirants and deodorants to breast cancer.

8. Myth: I'm too young to have breast cancer.

    Truth: Women (and men) of all ages are at the risk of developing breast cancer although the risk rises with age.

I think the Jelliriffic! moulds are still for sale although the competition is over. Even if you can't vote with your purchase of a mould now, your contribution towards the Breast Cancer Welfare Association Of Malaysia will help the association in their program to provide support for patients and increase awareness in breast cancer in the country. Facts: 1 in 20 women in Malaysia will get breast cancer. Although the incidence of breast cancer in Malaysia is lower than in western countries, the rate of increase is rising faster than in western countries.