How important are annual mammogram screenings? Research shows that these examinations have become instrumental in detecting breast cancer early. They give women the peace of mind and help them become more aware of their health. Let’s examine further the importance of scheduling a mammogram and how you can overcome any fears of getting one.
What is an Annual Mammogram?
When you reach a certain age, you start to qualify for an annual mammogram. This is defined as yearly X-ray tests and examinations to find any signs and symptoms of breast cancer at an early stage. Mammography is considered the gold standard of breast cancer screening. Experts have stated that they could detect abnormalities that physical wellness exams can’t.
However, while they have been reliable in catching most signs of breast cancer, mammograms aren’t always perfect. There have been times when these examinations have failed to detect breast cancer in women. That’s why it may be best for women to consider a few more opinions, such as another mammogram or a breast ultrasound. When setting an appointment for a mammogram, every woman must understand what to expect, as well as the benefits and limitations of these screenings. Having said that, research does show that women who have regular mammograms are more likely to have breast cancer found earlier, less likely to need aggressive treatments such as surgery, and are likely to be cured sooner.
Key Benefits of Scheduling an Annual Mammogram Screening
The annual mammogram screening benefits do outweigh the negatives in saving women’s lives. By choosing to have a mammogram screening as early as your 40s, you will be gaining peace of mind in figuring out your risk factors. Besides gaining peace of mind about your health and detecting cancer early, let’s examine more of the benefits of scheduling an examination.
Early Detection of Breast Cancer
This has to be the number one reason for getting screened early. If breast cancer is already hereditary in your family, a mammogram screening will really be helpful in detecting symptoms of breast cancer. However, just getting a mammogram can’t detect if you have breast cancer. If you have dense breast tissue, for example, you may also benefit from having a screening breast ultrasound. This could be able to help the radiologist find all the information they need to detect breast cancer or not.
As was mentioned earlier, early detection could lead to a five-year survival rate going higher, up to nearly 100%. When it spreads to other body parts, the survival rate starts to go down at 31%.
Peace of Mind and Health Awareness
When you schedule a mammogram, you also start to get some peace of mind about your breast health. You’ll no longer start to wonder about the state of your health as you get older. Your confidence will start to grow as you continue to keep up with your routine preventive care. If breast cancer is detected during your screening, you could get the help you need as soon as possible. When it’s not found, this could motivate you to continue to make good lifestyle choices to keep your risk low. It’s better to know your health status than not know what’s going on.
Potential Treatment Outcomes
Another great aspect of scheduling a mammogram is not worrying about more invasive treatments such as surgery. Detecting cancer early allows you to find less intense treatment quickly, and possibly put yourself in remission. You’ll also avoid needing chemotherapy because you took the necessary steps to detect it earlier.
Consistent Monitoring of any Changes
You’ll also start to be more aware of any new changes to your breasts. It’s important that every woman is aware of the appearance of them and if anything feels different. Identifying any abnormalities such as a lump, early can lower your risk of being diagnosed. Keep track of changes each year and when you see anything unusual, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
How to Cope with Fear of Getting a Mammogram
Most women getting a mammogram for the first time also cope with the fear of doing it. They know how important it is, but they may have heard that the examination can feel a little uncomfortable or even painful. I know I felt those nerves when I got mine last year. But there are ways to overcome those fears of mammograms.
Try considering some statistics of mammography and breast cancer. Of all the mammograms performed, only about 10% are called back for further testing. Through this, 10% of patients, research shows that only about less than 1% will actually be diagnosed with breast cancer. So when you look at these statistics, this could put your mind at ease concerning fears of your mammogram results.
As for fear of pain and discomfort during the screening, more mammogram technology has been improving these days. Your technologist should do everything they can to minimize any discomfort. I know when I had my first one, the doctor who performed it was really patient and good at putting me at ease during my examination. There’s also concern over exposure to radiation. However, there’s no need to worry about this either because the chances of this happening are said to be very low.
How to Prepare for a Mammogram
Just like with any doctor-related appointment, it’s vital to prepare well before going. Be sure to book a week after your menstrual period when your breasts are less tender. Also, be ready to discuss your family’s medical history, any new changes to your breasts, such as pain, lumps, etc., and any breast surgeries or implants you might’ve had. Check your insurance coverage and bring your card and ID with you.
On the day of your appointment, be sure you’re not wearing any deodorants, lotions, powders, creams, perfumes, or other cosmetics. Wear a top and pants or a skirt instead of a dress. Leave jewelry at home, especially necklaces. Bring any necessary records of any past mammograms you’ve had, especially if you’re getting one at a new place. If you’re still very anxious about your appointment, say a little prayer before heading off to your appointment.
Annual Mammograms are Significant to Your Healthcare
While most women choose to put off getting a mammogram out of fear, or they don’t think they need one, this isn’t an ideal thing to do. Annual mammogram screenings aren’t perfect, but they do come with a lot of benefits for your health. You’ll be able to detect your risk of breast cancer ahead of time and avoid invasive surgeries and chemotherapy. By scheduling a mammogram, you’ll be putting your mind and your family’s mind at ease and have a stronger awareness of your health. A screening will also allow you to be more consistent with the monitoring of any changes to your breast appearance. Please don’t wait until you feel a lump to schedule a mammogram. Take action with your health and schedule a screening for yourself today.
What benefits have you found that annual mammogram screenings been for you? How have you overcome any fears that you had in getting one? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. As always, be sure to like or share this post with the next woman you love and care about.
