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Health 52
Info Tip: Mammogram Guidelines
The odds are alarming.
The chance of a woman getting breast cancer during her life is about 1 in 8.
Although there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, you can reduce your
risk through healthy eating, regular exercise and avoiding excessive
alcohol. And, yes, men get breast cancer too.
This is all according to the American Cancer Society, who reminds women that
early detection is the best defense. A yearly mammogram, a detailed x-ray of
the breast, is recommended starting at age 40; earlier if breast cancer runs
in your family. Your very important first mammogram is called a “baseline”
and is expected to show a healthy breast. It is against this baseline that
future mammograms are compared.
Digital mammography allows doctors to share unusual findings quickly via
computer. The best time to have a mammogram is one or two weeks after your
menstrual period when breasts are less tender. Deodorant and powder can
interfere with the test.
As busy as you are, it's vitally important to make time for a mammogram.
It’s the best way to discover breast cancer in its earliest stage, when
treatment is less complicated and most effective.
Sources: American Cancer Society, Greenwich Hospital, Jefferson Radiology
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