Mammograms Do Save Lives! Part 2 Article - Cancer Breast Cancer Articles

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Mammograms Do Save Lives! Part 2

It is a startling fact that 1 out of 8 women will develop Breast Cancer in their lifetime. Early detection is our best defense.

Author: Stella Barron

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Mammography is the only exam to show early stage Breast Cancer. Other exams like MRI, Ultrasound and Nuclear Medicine are done after a breast mass is formed. Early stage Breast Cancer is in the form of micro-calcifications. Suspicious characteristics are sharp edged calcifications that seem to form a pattern.

If your Mammogram reveals a new formation of these micro-calcifications, you will be 'called back' for more images. The calcifications will be magnified to get a better look. If they still look suspicious, you will be referred for a biopsy. Finding Breast Cancer in this stage has the best prognosis.

If your Mammogram reveals a new mass, you will be referred for an Ultrasound or Nuclear Medicine exam. MRI can be done also. The characteristics of a suspicious mass are sharp irregular borders, hard solid mass and generally not sore. It also feels larger than it is. If it still appears suspicious you will have a biopsy.

If you get a 'call back' after your Mammogram, don't worry yet. There are several reasons for a 'call back'.

1) Repeat - Motion on film
2) Repeat - Not enough breast tissue on film
3) Repeat - Film too light or too dark
4) Additional Views - New calcifications
5) Additional Views - New mass

80% of 'call backs' are negative, so you shouldn't worry if you are called. I was 'called back' after my Mammogram for calcifications and had a biopsy. Thankfully, it was negative! I discovered it's impossible Not to worry. Our breast health is very important to us. I thought I would faint from all the worry!

Here is a list of things to do for Breast Health:
1) Practice self breast examination monthly
2) Have your physician exam your breast once a year
3) Have a Mammogram yearly or every 2 years (determined by your risk factors)
4) Eat a Healthy Diet!

You should practice breast self examination once a month. If you still have a menstraul cycle, Exam yourself 1 week after your cycle. If you don't, pick any time of month. The shower is one of the best places to exam yourself. The soapy water allows your fingers to glide over your breast tissue and reduces friction. Make sure to include your axillary (armpit) area. The majority of breast cancers are in the outer breast( the nipple to the armpit.)

The best reason for self breast examination is you become familiar with your breast tissue, therefore you detect a change early. Waiting a year for your physician to examine you could be the difference between life and death!

I want to encourage every woman to follow all the steps for breast health. Your loved ones will appreciate your efforts to fight Breast Cancer!

About Author

I am a 46 y/o single mom of two wonderful boys. 3 years ago I was diagnosed with MS and had to end my cherished career in the Radiology profession. My boys have been my greatest inspiration to keep fighting! Visit my home page www.stellagothergroove.com hit the DIET link for a healthy diet!

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