Mammography Monday’s

Mammography is still the most effective tool in our arsenal in the fight against breast cancer. While screening mammograms will not cure breast cancer, it will position us to stay ahead of the curve in which for most of us is half the battle.

Monday 
It’s Monday! and if you have not scheduled your Screening Mammogram this is for you.

Why should I have a Screening Mammogram?

Screening Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40. Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers when they are most curable and breast-conservation therapies are available.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) adds that women who at increased risk due to a genetic history of breast cancer should seek expert medical advice about whether they should begin screening before age 40 and about the frequency of screening.

Concerned about the mammogram being painful?

Remember, every woman has a different experience.

It is a myth that mammograms are always painful.

Most women state that it was not as painful as they anticipated.

Remember, you are in control. Communicate with your technologist, and we will take the time to stop, and reposition. This will often ease the discomfort you might feel.

Concerned or embarrassed by your body and what the technologist will think?

Mammography technologists are professionals and we have chosen our profession because we are interested in caring for women and their health.

The technologist will work with each patient to get the best possible images for the radiologist to review while caring for each woman in a kind and compassionate way.

Concerned you might not have the time for the mammogram?

While it is not possible to predict unforeseen delays, generally, your bilateral screening mammogram appointment will take approximately 20 minutes.

If you choose a facility that provides the results while you wait, you should prepare to wait at least an hour.

The Goal!

In the end, it’s important to remember that all women are unique and different. In addition to staying on top of preventative appointments and screenings, self-awareness is a key aspect of detecting changes not only in your breasts but in your overall health.