Breast protection relies on early detection

During Breast Awareness Month, various questions take the spotlight.
One of these is: Do women really need a reason to have a mammogram? Breast For Life, which has its offices in Sturdee Avenue, Rosebank, has given the following reasons to women, especially those over the age of 40, to have a mammogram:

• Contrary to myth, the current mammogram machines do not pinch, squash or deform the breasts. It is a quick procedure with very mild pressure.
• Anyone can get breast cancer so do regular self-checks, yearly mammograms and speak to your doctor if you pick up any changes. It is a myth that if there is no family history you are safe.
• One out of every 28 women in South Africa is diagnosed with breast cancer, but early detection can save your life.
• Due to Covid-19 fear, woman are neglecting going for mammograms, increasing their chances of delayed diagnosis.
• Your risk of breast cancer increases with age. All woman from 40 years of age should have screening mammograms.
• Make sure your mammogram facility has 3D mammogram capability. Also known as tomosynthesis or tomography, this is a specialised mammogram machine which can take 3D images of the breast. In conjunction with the 2D mammogram images, the machine significantly boosts breast cancer detection, especially with women who have dense breasts.
• Be a role model for other women in your life.

Details: www.breastforlife.co.za

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