4 Bringing health care news to your home It’s easier to treat and beat cancer when you detect it early and before it spreads to other areas. That’s why getting regular screenings is important. Mammography is the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Columbus Community Hospital offers 3D mammography, a system that detects tumors that are hidden by overlapping breast tissue and provides a more accurate diagnosis than standard 2D digital mammography. Research shows that women who get regular mammograms are more likely to find breast cancer early. They are also less likely to undergo aggressive treatments for their cancer, such as breast removal, and less likely to die from the disease. Here are five facts and tips to help you understand this important test. 1The risk of breast cancer increases with age. Experts consider you at average risk if you don’t have a personal history or a strong family history of breast cancer.* Screening mammograms should begin by age 40 and be performed yearly thereafter, until your life expectancy due to other health issues is less than five years (determined by a discussion with your primary care doctor). 2Factors that increase breast cancer risk include having: ● A BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, which genetic testing can detect. ● A first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) who’s had breast cancer or has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation. ● Radiation therapy to the chest between the ages of 10 and 30. ● Breasts with a lot of dense tissue. 3You may need additional tests. For some women at high risk for breast cancer, doctors may recommend screening with a breast MRI or ultrasound in addition to a mammogram. Ultrasound is used to further characterize abnormalities seen on screening mammography or detected during a physical exam. 4Be on the lookout. Although research hasn’t shown a clear benefit for breast self-exams, you should be aware of any change in the size or shape of your breast and any pain in a breast or nipple. Check for any lumps in your breasts or under your arm. If you notice any changes, talk to your doctor immediately. 5 Follow up. You should get the results of a mammogram from your doctor within 10 days. Don’t assume no news is good news. Call your doctor’s office to get your results. Additional sources: American Society of Clinical Oncology; Office onWomen’s Health Are you due for a mammogram? To learn about 3D mammography or schedule your mammogram with Columbus Community Hospital, visit columbushosp.org or call 402-562-3180. Women: Why you need breast cancer screening and when *You have a strong family history of breast cancer if you have a first-degree relative (mother, daughter or sister) with premenopausal breast cancer, or if you have had positive genetic screening for the BRCA genes. You should begin screening 10 years before the age at which that family member had cancer.
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