Due to the prevalence of breast cancer in women, education is paramount in combatting the issue. Educating yourself is important for your own personal health, but you can also spread the information to help friends, family, and your community understand how to care for themselves. Below is our quick guide for breast health education.
Guide for Breast Health Education
Women play a key role in communities as they make up 47% of the workforce and are often the primary caretakers of children. One in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. This is why education is important as it can save so many lives. Below you will find a helpful guide for breast health education.
Individual Breast Health
There are important steps you can take to ensure your breast health is in good shape. Consider the following to maintain your health for the long-term.
Attend Regular Mammograms:
Attending your regular women’s health appointments is crucial as consistency is key. Talk with your doctor about when you should get your first mammogram. Most women get their first mammogram around the age of 40. However, if you are at a higher risk for breast cancer you will likely need to get checked out earlier. A mammogram scans your breast tissue for tumors and other abnormalities that might be signs of breast cancer. After your first mammogram, your medical provider will likely recommend that you get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years depending on your results and personal risk factors.
Report Breast Changes:
On top of your regular mammograms, you should report any changes in your breasts if anything comes up in between your visits. You should report changes if you notice a difference in the look or feel of your breasts and nipples. You should also report if you have any nipple discharge. This is why it’s important to do home breast exams so you get familiar with the look and feel of your breast tissue. If you report these changes your doctor may recommend a mammogram or diagnostic ultrasound. Depending on your results, your medical provider can help you with next steps.
Understanding Risk Factors
Another important aspect when it comes to your breast health education is understanding your risk factors. Women at a high risk for breast cancer need to focus on a prevention strategy that works based on their unique needs. This requires mammograms at an earlier age and regular checkups with your women’s health doctor. Working with a medical provider and talking with them about your risk factors in integral for your long-term health. Below are some of the factors that can place you at a higher risk for breast cancer. If any of these apply to you, let your medical provider know as soon as possible.
- Close relative (mother, sister, daughter) under the age of 50 who has had a breast cancer diagnosis
- Male family member who has had breast cancer
- Multiple family members with breast or ovarian cancer
- Have had a breast biopsy with pathology showing atypical cells or lobular carcinoma in situ
- History of chest radiation due to lymphoma
- Have a known genetic mutation predisposing you to breast cancer development
Breast GYN Imagers
If you haven’t had your first mammogram or if you need women’s health imaging, contact the team at Breast Gyn Imagers. They provide teleradiology in Texas with accurate interpretations and concise results due to the importance of your health. Their team is passionate and dedicated to women’s health. They also understand the importance of receiving fast and accurate results so they are committed to providing a short turnaround time. Contact Breast GYN Imagers today for an appointment!