by: Angela Butera Dickson
Celebrate the month of your birth by having a mammogram - toast your life with this fast, easy and noninvasive test.
A first mammogram is a right of passage for most women at forty. 66.9% of women over the age of forty have had baseline mammograms to establish and document their breast health. But 30% of women have somehow missed this important message and it is an especially important one for the Hispanic and Asian communities who have the lowest average screening rates among American women.
There has been much confusion and controversy in the media about the benefits of mammography in the last two years. In a Danish study that was released in 2001 researchers concluded widespread mammography screening was unjustified. This study along with the numerous ensuing counter arguments criticizing the studies methodology has left many women unsure of the benefits of mammography.
On May 14 of this past year The American Cancer Society released its guidelines emphasizing the role and important benefits of mammography. The panel of independent experts reconfirmed that regular mammography screening reduces breast cancer deaths.
Mammography screening is endorsed by The American Cancer Society, The National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as well as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed female cancer in the United States. One out of every 10 women will be diagnosed with the disease and 40,000 women will die from breast cancer in the United States this year.
According to The National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations web site, “Although some breast cancers are found by women themselves, the vast majority are now detected by mammography at early stages, and at a size too small to be felt.”
Almost every woman should have a baseline mammogram done at age 40 and every two years after that until age 50 (75% of all breast cancers are found in women over the age of 50). Some practitioners even suggest yearly testing for all women over 40. At age 50 and beyond a mammogram should be done yearly. Those with a family history of breast cancer should talk with their doctor about the possible need for earlier testing.
It is an uncomplicated, non-evasive procedure that literally takes a few minutes of your time but it could very well be the test that saves your life.
What if you can’t afford screening?
Most medical insurance policies cover mammogram screenings and for those without health insurance there are may low cost and no cost programs available. Check with your local chapter of The American Cancer Society, the women’s health center at your local hospital or Department of Human Services for low or no cost programs offered in your community.
What To Expect
It is always easier to keep a medical appointment when you know what to expect and information is so important in having a relaxed and comfortable procedure.
First of all, for menstruating women, schedule you appointment shortly after you have finished your period. This is a time when you are least likely to have breast tenderness and sensitivity or additional swelling of the breast tissue from fluid retention.
It is best to avoid wearing underarm deodorant the day of your test because the chemicals in some products can mimic calcification spots on the highly sensitive x-ray film.
You will be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a hospital gown and robe to wear.
The technician will explain the procedure to you. She will gently position your breast on the small, adjustable machine platform, a metal square of about 12” X 12”. Many thoughtful technicians will warm up the metal with a heating pad for a few moments before starting your test.
It is necessary to flatten the breast tissue as much as possible and this is typically done with a clear Lucite panel or paddle. It can be a little uncomfortable but it is necessary and shouldn’t be painful. The flatter the breast tissue the less radiation is needed, resulting in less exposure to your body and the best possible picture. Some screening sites will allow the patient to adjust the pressure herself to minimize discomfort. Ask about this if you feel it will help to minimize any anxiety you may be feeling.
Then you will he asked to stand very still and hold your breath, as the x-ray is taken. The machine will automatically release pressure on your breast as soon as it is done. It takes about 10 seconds from the time the pressure is applied until you’re released.
Typically two different views of each breast will be shot for a total of four 10 second periods of breast compression.
You shouldn’t experience breasts pain during the test. If this happens tell the technician and together you should be able to find a suitable position to make it comfortable for you.
Celebrate Your Life!
Make mammography a part of your yearly health physical along with your blood pressure and cholesterol screening, Pap test and eye checkup. Think of it as nurturing yourself. Each birthday is a time to celebrate the life you’ve lived and ensure that you continue to live healthfully ever after.
For more information please see these web sites :
The USDA site form Mammography
http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/mammography/
The National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations
The American Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp