Are you overdue for a mammogram, but it hasn’t made it to the top of your to-do list yet? With so many different responsibilities to juggle, such as jobs, kids, and caring for other family members, many women may find that scheduling time for a mammogram appointment often gets lost amongst other priorities because they are too busy taking care of everyone else.
Taking care of yourself should be first on your list and not last, because if you are not taking care of your own health, it will be even more challenging to help others.
Did you know that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime? The American College of Radiology states that mammography screenings have assisted in the reduction of deaths due to breast cancer in the United States by 1/3 since 1990. A mammogram is an important tool in detecting breast cancer early when it’s easiest to treat. Regular mammography screenings can help to detect the cancer at an early stage, which can lead to early treatment, a wider range of treatment options, and better chances of cure and survival.
Here are some other reasons to help you prioritize getting a mammogram:
• Mammograms are quick and easy. Getting a mammogram usually takes only 30 minutes or less. Most places that provide screenings offer a choice of appointment times so you can select a time that’s most convenient for you so you can quickly get back to tackling your other priorities. You might be able to get a screening during your lunch hour, before or after work, or on the weekend.
• Chances of surviving breast cancer is much better if the cancer is found early. The five-year survival rate is 99% if the cancer is found before it spreads outside the breast, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. If found early, your doctor may only need to remove the cancer instead of the entire breast. Follow your doctor’s recommendations to help detect breast cancer early—when it is easiest to treat.
• Mammograms can show masses and other changes in the breasts that can be caused by cancer before you even feel a lump. You may not be able to feel a lump if it’s small or deep inside your breast. The screenings use low dose X-rays that give doctors a look at the inside of your breasts.
• Family history of breast cancer increases risk of breast cancer. Your chance of getting breast cancer could be higher if someone else in your family had the cancer. If your mother, daughter or sister had breast cancer, your risk could be nearly double. Keep in mind, however, that you can also get breast cancer even if no one in your family has ever had it.
• Risk of breast cancer increases with age. You can get breast cancer at any age, but it’s more likely to happen as you get older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that most breast cancers happen in women over 50. The American College of Radiology recommends starting yearly breast cancer screenings at age 40. Women at elevated risk for breast cancer may need to start earlier or supplement with breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Other things may increase your risk for breast cancer. According to the CDC, factors that may raise your risk of breast cancer are dense breasts, being overweight or having obesity after menopause, having breast cancer in the past, radiation treatment to the chest at a young age, taking certain hormones, starting your period before age 12 or starting menopause after age 55. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors.
Know that it’s okay to put yourself first. Take charge of your health and schedule your mammogram today by calling (562) 906-5692 or visiting PIHHealth.org/Mammogram.
If you’ve not had a wellness check-up in a while, make an appointment. To find a PIH Health physician near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Doctors.
