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by Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
We all know the importance of mammograms for women over 40 (or earlier if your health care professional recommends it or there is a family history of breast cancer.) A few questions can make sure you get the full benefit from your mammogram. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and keep asking until you are satisfied. Your health is your responsibility and your most valuable assest. You have the right to be informed about the choices you make.
There are 5 questions every women needs to ask her doctor about mammograms:
- Is my mammogram scheduled at an FDA Certified Mammography Facility? (Note: This can also be checked online) .
- Will more than one radiologist interpret the film? (It helps to have two radiologists independently interpret every film.)
- How many mammograms does the lead radiologist read annually? (The FDA recommends doctors read at least 480 a year. If you have any questions about your mammogram results, you can always request the lead radiologist interpret your film.)
- Does this facility provide follow-up screenings (i.e., Your doctor might want you to go for an ultrasound, which is used to help radiologists evaluate some lumps that can be felt, but are hard to see on a mammogram).
- If the results of the mammogram are suspicious, what are my next steps?
Two important resources for patients are the Komen Foundation's Web site, www.komen.org, and help line, 1.800 I'M AWARE®.
Five Reasons Why Young Women Should Perform a Breast Self Exam
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women of all ages, except certain skin cancers. The most proven and significant risk factors are being female and getting older.
- Young women's cancers are generally more aggressive and result in lower survival rates - making early detection even more important.
- Mammography is not recommended for most women until age 40. This sometimes results in younger women being diagnosed later, and possibly lowering their chance of survival.
- Young women tend to have thicker breast tissue than older women, making diagnosis difficult. This makes it vitally important for younger women to become familiar with how their breasts look and feel through monthly BSE beginning by age 20.
- With one in seven American women at risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime, it is never too early to establish good breast health practices.
If you notice a change in your breast through BSE or some other means, contact your health care provider for further evaluation immediately. For more information about young women and breast cancer, visit www.komen.org and please see www.komen.org/bse for a visual of how to perform an exam yourself.
More to read:
My breast cancer journey
Facing cancer
~ For more than 20 years, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation has been a global leader in the fight against breast cancer through its support of innovative research and community-based outreach programs. For information, support and ways to get involved in the fight against breast cancer go to www.komen.org.