It’s easy to let annual screenings and other preventive care efforts fall behind when we feel healthy. But keeping up with these things is important to ensure long-term health. Without these screenings, medical conditions often go undetected. With breast cancer being the second-leading cause of cancer death for women, it serves you well to get your annual mammogram screening.
At AdventHealth, we care for you in body, mind and spirit. Our team of expert physicians understands the importance of mammograms and how they empower you to embrace whole-person health. They also understand that mammograms can bring mixed emotions and confusion.
Read on to learn more about the importance of receiving mammogram screenings and what to know about this topic to stay healthy and feel whole.
Types and Functionality of Mammograms
Knowing what mammograms are and how they serve you is your first step in taking charge of your health. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of breast tissue. Doctors use a mammography unit to take pictures of the breast, looking for early signs of breast cancer before symptoms develop. This machine allows the doctor to assess your health and monitor any abnormalities accurately.
There are two different technology levels of mammograms, including two-dimensional and three-dimensional. One takes multiple images of the breast to create a 2D view. The other type produces a 3D image by gently compressing each breast and taking multiple images from different angles.
“The newer three-dimensional mammogram has been proven to better detect cancer with fewer false-positive results,” says our board-certified general surgeon, Rachel Raphael, MD. Consider speaking with your health care provider to schedule your mammogram and be proactive about your health.
What Screenings Can Do for You
Many women neglect to schedule their mammograms due to fear of the results. However, annual screenings can provide early detection of breast cancer, allowing you to take action before it develops further.
“Keeping up with yearly mammogram screenings has saved thousands of women’s lives,” says Dr. Raphael. You can fight your fear of results by regularly getting screened.
It’s usually suggested that you begin mammogram screenings when you turn 40. However, you may want to consider getting screened at a younger age if you have a family history of cancer or develop any new breast problems.
“One of the most significant benefits of mammograms is their ability to identify signs of cancer up to two years before there are any physical symptoms,” says Dr. Raphael. Practicing preventive care, such as getting your yearly screening, will serve you and your loved ones best.
The Truth About Mammograms
There are many false ideas out there about mammograms, so we understand if you feel hesitant at first. But our health care providers want you to have the knowledge you need to feel empowered in your health care journey. Benefits of mammograms include:
- Better opportunity for recovery
- Early detection of breast cancer
- Lower mortality rate
- Preventive care
Your Partner in Preventive Breast Care
From preventing to detecting and treating breast cancer, our expert care team is here for you every step of the way, empowering you to take charge of your health. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Raphael, visit us here. You have the power to own your health.
