Mammograms save lives
Even though many women realize a mammogram is an important tool in the early detection of breast cancer, only 66% of women age 40 and older get annual mammograms, according the National Cancer Institute. That is 3 million fewer than five years ago.
To try to raise those numbers and save lives, the American Cancer Society sponsors National Mammography Day Oct. 19, as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Gail Weingast, MD, a diagnostic radiology specialist on the Backus Medical Staff with an interest in mammography, said some women are hesitant because the test can be uncomfortable, while others fear being diagnosed with cancer.
Who should have the test: Starting at age 40, women should have annual mammograms. Women may be advised by their doctor to have mammograms earlier if they have a history of breast cancer in their family.
How to prepare: Although a mammogram can be uncomfortable, Dr. Weingast reminds women the benefits of early detection far outweigh any discomfort. Backus Hospital offers a Mammopad, a foam cushion that creates a softer experience. There are things a woman can do to prepare ahead of time as well. For example, schedule the test 10 to 14 days after the last day of your menstrual cycle, when your breasts are the least sensitive. You can also take Tylenol before the test to reduce the discomfort.
New technology on the rise: Digital mammography— The ACRIN trial, one of the largest breast cancer screening studies ever performed, showed no difference between digital and film mammography in detecting breast cancer for the general population of women. However, in a recent study by the American College of Radiology Imaging Network, digital mammography detected significantly more cancers than screen film mammography in women 50 and younger, premenopausal and perimenopausal women, and women with dense breasts. Dr. Weingast said the other benefits of digital mammography are that the image is stored digitally on a computer and can be manipulated easier on a screen, so certain areas can be enhanced. Also, the image can be corrected if the exposure is off, rather than having to perform the test again. From a patient's perspective, the test is the same in terms of breast compression and time it takes for positioning and length of the test itself.
Backus offers the early detection programMammograms and Pap Smears Eligibility requirements:
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