Breast health: 4 common concerns and myths
From caring for an aging parent to getting dinner on the table, being a mom gets busy.
We understand this makes it tough to focus on your own needs. As a result, your health takes a backseat, and this includes breast care.
But when it comes to breast health, taking care of yourself means you can care for those you love. Here are four common questions and answers about breast care you need to know.
Do I need a mammogram if I check my breasts myself?
Yes, you do.
Checking your breasts is good, but it can’t replace a mammogram. A mammogram is like an x-ray of your breasts. It can find tiny lumps up to three years before you can feel them.
Women should start getting mammograms at age 40. This is because finding breast cancer early can save lives.
Consider these numbers. The chance of surviving cancer five years after diagnosis for the two earliest stages of breast cancer is 100%. And for stage 3, the chance is 93%.
If someone in your family had breast cancer, you should start screening earlier. Bert Petersen, Jr., MD, director of the breast health division at SBH Health System, explains.
“If your sister had breast cancer at 42, your first mammogram should be at 32,” Dr. Petersen says. “If your mother had breast cancer at 36, your first mammogram should be at age 26.”
3D mammography at SBH
SBH offers 3D mammography, which gives a clearer picture and makes it easier to spot problems.
“3D mammography can look through dense breast tissue,” Dr. Petersen says.
Am I too young to worry about breast health?
No, breast cancer can happen at any age.
It is more common in older women, but about 9% of new breast cancer cases are in women under 45. And, Dr. Peterson shared that “in Black and Latina populations, you tend to see breast cancer earlier.”
He recommends doing a self-exam at least once a month to help you spot changes in your breasts. Try to check your breasts the week after your period when they’re less likely to be swollen or tender.
Will a mammogram hurt or give me too much radiation?
The amount of radiation from a mammogram is small.
“You would need about 40,000 mammograms a year to get a significant dose,” Petersen says.
The benefits of getting mammograms outweigh any risks because it helps your doctor to find problems sooner. And the earlier they spot the problem, the more likely you’ll get the treatment you need to get better.
Many patients don’t like mammograms because of the pain from having their breasts squeezed. To reduce the pain, avoid scheduling mammograms during the week before your period. This is when your breasts are more sensitive. And remember, any pain lasts for only a few seconds.
What if I don’t have insurance and can’t afford a mammogram?
Even if you think you can’t afford a mammogram, there are options.
For example, SBH Health System provides free mobile mammography services. The mobile mammography unit allows SBH to bring the screening to patients.
“We have the mobile mammography program, which hits every ZIP code in the Bronx,” Dr. Petersen says.
The New York State Cancer Services Program also offers free breast cancer screenings.
Getting mammograms is important, but the quality of care also matters. And to deliver quality care, doctors must listen to patients and understand their needs. This is why SBH uses translation devices to help make conversations easier with patients who speak Spanish or other languages.
Schedule your mammogram today
Remember, you can’t take care of your loved ones if you don’t care of yourself first. So, make your health a priority and schedule your mammogram today.
For more information, visit our website Call (718) 960-3730 to schedule a screening.