Breast Cancer Screening for Early Detection

Cancer is a killer disease, but it is curable if detected early. If you are forty years and above, you should consider going for a mammogram. There are several organizations and groups which offer the testing for free once in a year, and you should take advantage of such offers. Different groups campaign for screening at different times of the year but they are all aiming at getting women over the age of forty to get a mammogram once yearly.

1. The center you choose to get your mammogram from matter. There are specialists like Solstice Corporation and non-specialized in this field. For accurate results, women are advised to get a mammogram from specialized doctors. They have the right experience and knowledge to interpret the results accurately. If you decide to pay for your screening, the experienced doctors will be more costly, but you cannot compare money to your health and wellbeing.
2. Do not be afraid of the discomfort. First of all, a mammogram is not painful and should not be painful. It is uncomfortable, and this is what puts some women off. But do you understand that you better endure the discomfort than many years of pain and suffering? If you experience sensitive breasts during periods or when in ovulation, schedule your screening after the monthly periods to avoid discomforts and pain. It is necessary to inform the technologist about any discomfort you are experiencing. Fear of the discomfort or the results should not hinder you from taking a mammogram. It is the only way to ensure that you are safe.
3. Wait for your results. If you are taking the mammogram for the first time, it is important that you leave the center with your results. If they call you back for a second scan, ask an appointment with another center for a second opinion.
4. Understand your breasts. You should be able to tell when you feel normal and when something is not right. If you notice any irritation, swelling or a lump, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
5. Know your risk. If you come from a family with people who have suffered breast cancer or any other form of cancer, you are at risk of suffering from breast cancer. Be candid with your doctor and tell him or her all the details they need to know about your medical history and that of your family. If you are in the high-risk zone, you might be requiring an MRI in addition to the mammogram.