Blake Medical Center

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

So here we are, it’s October again; a month of pink walks, breast cancer awareness and the nine-letter word, MAMMOGRAM.  Everywhere we turn women are being given information about breast exams, mammograms, digital mammography, MRI’s and more.  Here’s a quick reference to make sense of it all:

Mammograms: When should we start?

The American Cancer Society recommends women start getting annual mammograms at age 40 and continue for as long as they are in good health.  Mammograms are an important part of breast cancer prevention.  Early detection is key!  Women with average risk of breast cancer should begin at age 40.  Those with increased risk (i.e. family history of breast cancer or female gynecological cancers) should follow recommendations from their physician.

Digital Vs. Traditional Mammograms: What’s the difference?

Experts at Blake Medical Center recommend that patients choose fully digital mammograms. How many of us still use 35mm film cameras? The answer is not many. Why? Because digital is clearer, faster, the image is there immediately and it can be enlarged or manipulated in a variety of ways to meet our needs. The same is true for digital mammography. In addition to better image quality and easier detection and review of suspicious areas, digital mammograms is also more convenient for the patient. It’s fast and easy and usually requires less call backs because technicians can instantly see if they need additional views.

Prevention: How can I lower my risk?

Although breast cancer can’t be prevented, making healthy lifestyle choices can help significantly lower your risk.  According to The American Cancer Society, women who limit alcohol intake, avoid tobacco use, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy body weight have a lower risk of getting breast cancer than others.

Gender Specific: Can men get breast cancer?

Most of the time we hear of women getting breast cancer but since men have breast tissue, just like women, they are also at risk.  In fact, Peter Criss, a member of the band KISS is a breast cancer survivor and expected to walk in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event in Point Pleasant, New Jersey this month.  Men who notice any change in their breast or any lumps in the area of the breast or underarms should seek medical evaluation.

So what are you waiting for?  Get screened and pampered at Blake Medical Center’s next ‘Mamm and Glamm’ event, Wednesday, October 26, from 4 pm to 7 pm. The Breast Care Center at Blake Medical Center is located at 2010 59^th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209. For more information or to make a mammogram appointment, just call 1-866-463-7004.