Breast Cancer Screening Saves Lives

By Public Relations Specialist Shamika Andrew

Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women — affecting one out of eight women in the U.S. Knowing how and when to get screened while following the recommended testing schedule is the best method to detect cancer in its earliest stages, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

Southcentral Foundation Radiology recommends getting a clinical breast exam by your health care provider every year beginning at age 20 and an annual mammogram for women ages 40 and older. SCF mammography technologists use the most up-to-date technology, 3D mammography, which provides earlier breast cancer detection and detects 40% of more invasive cancers than conventional mammography alone.

Why do I need to get a mammogram every year?

Comparing mammogram pictures from year to year makes it easier for the radiologist to find changes early.

I have no family history of breast cancer; do I still need to have annual mammograms?

Yes, any woman can develop breast cancer.

Does a mammogram hurt?

There may be discomfort while the breasts are being compressed. If you have menstrual cycles, try to schedule your mammogram at least three days after your period when your breasts are not tender.

While mammograms can help detect cancer before physical changes such as lumps appear, breast self-exams help women become familiar with how their breasts look and feel so their providers can be notified right away if there are any changes. A breast self-exam is a convenient screening method recommended for women of all ages. It can be performed at home and should be included as part of a monthly routine.

To perform a breast self-exam, a woman may be standing or lying down. She should use her three middle fingers to press down into the breast with light, medium, and firm pressure. This should be repeated over the entire breast on both sides. She should note any lumps, thickening, hardened knots, dimpling, swelling, or other abnormalities. If anything abnormal or concerning is detected, she should contact her primary care provider to verify and discuss next steps. This process should be repeated monthly.

Since breast cancer is a common condition among Alaska Native and American Indian women, SCF providers are versed in the screening and testing process, and in determining a follow-up care plan if a cancerous growth is found. Regardless of the outcome of a physical exam or mammogram, customer-owners can be confident they are getting the highest quality screening, the most accurate results possible, and providers who will partner with them to determine the best courses of action.

SCF Health Education offers a Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program that provides community outreach and cancer prevention materials for customer-owners. It is recommended to get screened more often if your family has a history of cancer. Screening and early detection can save lives.

If you have questions about your breast cancer risk factors or screening options, contact your primary care team.