Because the lockdown virtually halted breast screening services, it is more crucial that those with any symptoms get tested, especially since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Age is a significant risk factor for developing breast cancer, and most breast cancers are seen in women 55 and older. When getting breast exams or screening for breast cancer, mammograms are the imaging test of choice. It is the most reliable method for finding breast cancer early, when it may be treated most effectively.
Therefore, the American Cancer Society suggests that women start receiving mammograms as early as age 40 and resolve to have annual mammograms by age 45 to detect breast cancer. Routine screening once a year is the most effective method of preventing breast cancer, while women over the age of 55 can convert to screening after two years.
This article will explore how often one should have breast exams as one ages.
What Is the Right Time to Get a Breast Exam?
Once a year, beginning at age 40, mammograms are strongly encouraged by medical professionals. You should keep being screened even if you feel healthy. They also advise getting to know your breasts' usual appearance and texture and promptly notifying your doctor of any changes.
The specific risk population for breast cancer comprises women aged 50 to 74, and medical professionals suggest that this age group has a mammography every two years. Talking to your primary care doctor about the risks and advantages of breast cancer screening, depending on your age, is a good idea whether you are under 50 or over 74.
Advantages of a Breast Exam
1. Breast Exams Can Save Lives
Without a screening, doctors cannot know which malignancies can spread and cause more significant damage to the patient.
2. Breast Exams Detect Cancer That Is Difficult to Diagnose
Medical personnel can now utilize mammograms to diagnose cancer early on and employ reliable mammography monitoring tools to follow the development and treatment of breast cancer.
What Should You Do Before Having a Mammogram?
Here are some tips to help you get ready for your mammogram.
• When you're ready, the first thing to do is make an appointment for a mammogram. Time it when you can unwind, and your breasts aren't feeling too sensitive.
• Please bring any previous mammograms with you to your visit. If you have your mammogram there, you may ask the prior facility to send the mammography pictures to the new facility.
• Keep your underarms and breasts free of scented lotions, creams, perfumes, and deodorants. This way, the deodorants' metallic ingredients won't taint the study's findings.
Senior Helpers Frederick Is Always Ready to Help
When it comes to in-home care for seniors, no one does it better than Senior Helpers of Frederick. Our individualized home care services range from basic help with daily living tasks to specialized care for those living with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Disease.
Contact us if you're looking for assistance for an elderly loved one in the areas of Frederick, Thurmont, Hagerstown, or Middletown who is dealing with a chronic ailment such as breast cancer.