Why You Need To Get A Mammogram This Breast Cancer Awareness Month
During October, breast cancer organizations in the United States and worldwide join forces to help bring awareness to this disease, encourage women to get a mammogram, and raise money to fund research and charities.
National Breast Cancer Awareness month is the perfect time to educate yourself, show support for survivors, and make sure you schedule your mammogram. Early detection is vital, and a mammogram is an effective way to identify potential problems and be proactive about your health. If you have never had a mammogram, here are some answers to commonly asked questions to help you prepare for your first appointment.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a type of x-ray used to take a picture of your breast tissue. A qualified radiologist will place your breast on a unique platform and gradually compress it with a transparent plastic plate. While this can be uncomfortable, capturing all the tissue in the x-ray and detecting abnormalities that can hide in the breast tissue is necessary.
During the mammogram, the radiologist will take top-to-bottom x-rays along with side views to get comprehensive images of the entire breast. From there, the doctor will take a closer look at the photos and determine if there needs to be further testing. The procedure only takes about 20 minutes and can help detect signs of breast cancer up to three years before you find a lump using self-exam techniques.
What is a Digital Mammogram?
Your doctor may use digital mammogram technology and the procedure is essentially the same as traditional methods. A digital procedure records photos as data allowing for a human and computer to review. Digital mammograms require a lower radiation dose and can be enhanced for clarity. For doctors, digital photos are much easier to store and share with colleagues.
When Should I Get a Mammogram?
Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women, which means it is never too early to get a mammogram. Cancer.org recommends that women get mammograms at forty. Between forty-five and fifty-four yearly, and after fifty-five every two years. If you’re higher risk for breast cancer, tell your doctor and they’ll provide the best screening schedule for you.
While possible for younger women to get breast cancer, mammograms aren’t as effective before reaching forty. Younger women tend to have denser breast tissue, affecting visuals in x-rays. If you’re under forty but at high risk, perform monthly self-exams. Self-breast exams familiarize yourself with your body resulting in easier detection of new abnormalities.
What are the Breast Cancer Risk Factors?
Unfortunately, some women are at a higher risk for breast cancer than others. If a close relative has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you’re at a higher risk. While you can’t control some factors, there are lifestyle choices you can make to reduce risk.
It is essential to:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet
- Avoid processed meats and other foods
- Exercise regularly
- Quit smoking
- Reduce alcohol consumption
Making these changes and paying attention to your overall health will help reduce your risk of breast cancer. While there is no way to prevent breast cancer, you can practice due diligence and avoid putting yourself at unnecessary risk.
How Do I Prepare for a Mammogram?
Find a certified facility and make an appointment that is not close to your menstrual cycle. Added discomfort can occur if your breasts are already swollen and sensitive.
You’ll remove some clothing and wear a hospital gown. Consider a two-piece outfit that’s easy to slip on and off. Avoid deodorant and perfume – they can interfere with the x-rays.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to schedule your mammogram and remind a friend.
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