Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Breast Cancer Awareness



October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Wear your PINK and spread the word. As a Mammographer, breast cancer awareness is a part of my job. I consider it my professional responsibility to educate women about their breast health. Most people know that mammograms screen for breast cancer but here are some things you might not know.
  • Breast cancer is considered the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women 
  • Breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death among women
  • Breast cancer occurs in 1 in 8 women
Early detection is crucial when it comes to breast health. The earlier a breast cancer is caught the better the prognosis is for the patient. 
  • Women 40 and older should have a screening mammogram annually.
  • Women should perform monthly self breast exams
  • Starting at age 20, women should have a clinical breast exam performed by a physician at least once every 3 years.

Occasionally, I encounter women who believe that having a mammogram is pointless. These women do not consider that anything could possibly be wrong with them; because number one they are asymptomatic and number two they have no family history of breast cancer. If you or someone you know is one of these women, I urge you to reconsider all of the reasons why women age forty and older should have a mammogram annually. 

This October, do not forget to wear your PINK and help support the fight against breast cancer. There are numerous organizations that support the fight against breast cancer. I encourage you to get involved, donate and help save lives.  

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