Just for Her: New Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines
By Ann Hoffman, DO, OB/GYN, Cascade Valley Arlington Women's Health, and
Jacqueline Johnson, Mammography Technologist, Cascade Valley Hospital
| October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month |
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The earlier breast cancer is found, the greater your chance of survival, yet not every woman over 40 is getting her yearly mammogram. If you are one who has been putting off your mammogram, let Cascade Valley Hospital offer you encouragement. During the month of October, we want you to relax with a massage and some delicious refreshments after your screening mammogram. Just make your choice from one evening each week from 5 to 8 p.m. Call Linda at 360-435-0514 to schedule an evening of taking care of you. |
Each year in the United States, approximately 180,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. New breast cancer screening guidelines, released by the American Cancer Society last year, offer specific guidance to women on how to detect this cancer in its early stages, while calling all women to increase self-awareness.
Guidelines for Women at Average Risk
The guidelines maintain that all women over age 40 should get a mammogram once a year. Mammograms are still considered to be the best tool for early cancer detection. Healthy older women also should continue to get routine mammograms, regardless of age.
Furthermore, women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast examination included with their regular physical check-up at least every three years, and every year after age 40.
Guidelines for Women at Higher Risk
Women at higher risk are advised to discuss with their health care provider the possibility of beginning mammography screening at age 30 or younger, or shortening the intervals between screenings. Your provider may also consider screening with a breast ultrasound or MRI in addition to your regular mammogram.
One major risk is family history. If one or more of the following characteristics describes your family, you may be at higher risk:
- Breast cancer occurring before age 50 in a blood relative
- Two or more blood relatives with breast or ovarian cancer
- Relatives with both breast and ovarian cancer
- One or more relatives with two cancers, breast and ovarian or two independent breast cancers
- Male relatives with breast cancer
- A general family history of breast or ovarian cancer
In addition, risk may be increased when the affected relative is closer in relation to you. For example, yhour likelihood to inherit breast cancer may be higher when the affected relative is your mother or sister, as opposed to your grandmother or aunt.
The Importance of Awareness
Overall self-awareness can play a major role in detecting breast cancer. Women are advised to watch for changes in their bodies and breasts. If you notice changes in yhour body, specifically in how your breasts look or feel, immediately contact your health care provider. This is especially important if you notice continued changes in your breasts.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.