Breast Cancer Doesn't Quarantine, Radiologists Urge Women to Get Screened
"Thinking about skipping your mammogram this year? Think again,"said Debi Olsen.
In January, Dr. Minh Nguyen, a breast-specialized radiologist at Solis Mammography, diagnosed two fast-growing, malignant breast cancers, one the size of a large bar of soap, in Debi's right breast.
Debi had only skipped one mammogram.
She now shares her personal story to urge other women not to wait, even in a pandemic, sharing the importance of early detection through annual screening mammograms. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. "It can save your life like it saved mine," said Debi.
"If you've put off your annual mammogram, now is the time to schedule and make your health a priority," says Dr. Alexander Sardina, chief medical officer for Solis Mammography. "Breast cancer doesn't quarantine. There are women who are living with undiagnosed breast cancer right now. A delay in diagnosis is a delay in treatment and optimal outcomes."
With the interruption in routine care caused by Covid-19, many women need a reminder to make mammograms a priority during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Here are tips from Dr. Sardina about how to be proactive with your breast health:
• Start at 40: Begin having mammograms annually starting at age 40.
• Make it a habit: Routine annual mammograms can detect early stage breast cancers the size of a pea or smaller.
• Do it monthly: Self-exams should be performed same time, every month to check for changes in size, shape and texture.
• Know your risks: Become familiar with your risk factors, both lifestyle and genetic that can increase your risk for developing breast cancer.
• You are never too young: Women in their 20s and 30s should perform monthly breast self-exams, and be aware of their personal risk factors
Solis Mammography has a 30-year legacy of a patient-first approach to mammography. Centers are serene, spa-like and are equipped with the latest in 3-D imaging integrated with SmartCurve comfort technology for greater accuracy and comfort. To learn more about Solis Mammography, visit www.solismammo.com.