This article originally appeared in Health Matters, a health
information newsletter published by Clinton Hospital for members of the Greater
Clinton community.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So ladies, start thinking
pink and take the time to schedule your annual mammogram. According to the
American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in
women between the ages of 15 and 54. However, early detection significantly
increases a woman's chance for survival.
"While general guidelines suggest that healthy women should begin annual
mammograms between the ages of 35 and 40, women with a family history are
encouraged to begin screening even earlier," said Lisa Boodry, RTR, (M), chief
mammography technologist at Clinton Hospital. "Every woman is at risk for breast
cancer. There's a first in every family, so it is important that no one ignore
the need for annual screenings."
Woman can take charge of their breast health by following a few simple steps:
- Breast Self-exams - Beginning at age 20, women should conduct monthly
examinations to become accustomed to the normal consistency of their breasts and
try to identify anything that feels abnormal. The best time to perform the exam
is soon after the menstrual cycle ends.
- Clinical Exams - Women age 20 plus also should make yearly, "check up"
appointments with their physician, who will perform a breast exam to keep track
of any changes in the breast from year-to-year.
- Mammograms - A high percentage of breast cancers can be detected early
through mammogram screenings. State-of-the-art, digital mammography at Clinton
Hospital provides a high-resolution picture of the breast tissue, helping
radiologists identify any suspicious areas.
Clinton Hospital offers patients the high-technology of digital mammography.
Appointments can be made for within two weeks. Call 978-368-3737.