The motto for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October of each year) is "the best protection is early detection." The average American woman's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is 1 in 8. Since the cause of breast cancer has not yet been determined, the best means of early detection - and therefore optimal chance of survival - continues to be monthly self breast exams in women beginning in their 20s and 30s, annual clinical breast exams by a healthcare professional, and mammography at certain intervals based on a woman's age
and risk factors.

Mammography is a very safe procedure, with minimal radiation exposure. Visible changes are evident a number of years before palpable changes are noted on either self breast exam or clinical breast exam. If suspicious areas are noted on mammography, with biopsy then performed, diagnosis and treatment can begin long before potential for invasive disease. Digital mammography that definitely improves evaluation in high risk women is available in our area.

Current guidelines for mammography are fairly standard. Women between the ages of 35-40 should have at least one screening mammography during those years, potentially more depending on findings or pertinent family history. Mammography should be performed yearly after age 40.

Please make sure you discuss with your healthcare professional any risk factors for developing breast cancer you may have, particularly family history or any previous breast biopsies. Make sure you understand appropriate intervals for mammography in your case. Washington Women's Care would be happy to assist.

(252) 946-6544 • 1-800-675-5694