Dispelling myths about mammograms




According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women today. In 2013, an estimated 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in American women, and approximately 39,620 women will die from it.

The good news is that with regular breast cancer screenings, most women can signifi- cantly increase their chances of beating the disease.

In celebrating October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Catherine Moses, diagnostic and interventional radiologist and chair of the Breast Program at Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center, discusses the benefits of mammograms and dispels the most common myths about them.

For some women, the thought of having to schedule their annual mammogram is as painful as getting their wisdom teeth pulled. However, despite the millions of excuses they may have for wanting to cancel their appointment, there are many more important reasons why they should keep it.

Moses responds to the 10 excuses most commonly heard from patients.

I am too young to have breast cancer.” Breast cancer does not discriminate by age, race or religion. While it is most common in women who are 55 or older, it can afflict younger women too. There are different guidelines about when to begin undergoing mammograms, so ask a doctor.

I have no family history, so why do I need to be screened?” There is a greater risk of a woman getting breast cancer if it runs in her family, especially if her sister or mom had it. However, about 85 percent of women who are diagnosed have no family history of the disease. Why take the risk?

I am healthy and exercise every day.” While diet and exercise will reduce the risk, it does not eliminate the chances completely.

I’m too busy.” On average, mammograms only take 15 to 30 minutes, and those minutes may turn into additional years if the breast cancer is detected and treated in its earliest stages.

I can’t afford a mammogram.” Mammograms are now free under the healthcare reform law and have no deductibles and co-pays. Medicare also covers mammograms. For free or lowcost options, call Thousand Oaks Radiology at (805) 496-7755.

The radiation is too risky.” Women may be exposed to more radiation from a cellphone than from mammograms.

I do regular self-exams and never feel any lumps.” Mammograms can find even the smallest tumors up to three years before they can be felt.

Mammograms will not help because my breasts are too dense.” Mammograms are far from useless. While they are not as effective in detecting tumors in dense breasts, the addition of an ultrasound or MRI helps to detect nearly 100 percent of cancers.

It’s uncomfortable and painful.” A mammogram is quick and the pain, if any, is brief. However, to further reduce the level of discomfort, schedule a mammogram when breasts are less sensitive; take an aspirin or over-the-counter pain reliever before the screening and let the radiologist know of any sensitivity. The radiologist might be able to make the mammogram a more positive experience.

I am too afraid of what my screening may find.” Having to face a potential breast cancer diagnosis is frightening. But if cancer is detected, by getting an annual mammogram you will have significantly increased the chances of beating the disease.

For more information about breast cancer or to schedule a breast cancer screening, call (877) 888-

5746 or go to www.losrobleshospital.com.

Courtesy of Los Robles Hospital And Medical Center.



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