Early detection of cancer saves lives. This is why the breast cancer
survival rate among women has risen. Having a mammogram or X- ray performed on
your breast is a preventative measure.
Mammograms are of two types: 2D and 3D. 2D mammograms examine the front
and back of the breast while 3D mammograms capture images of the breast tissue
from different angles of the breast. 3D tests are more expensive compared to 2D
tests.
3D Mammography
You can have a mammography once every year. This has many benefits which
include:
·
Decreases additional images needed
·
Slightly more cancers are detected
·
There is a higher chance of detecting breast cancer
Family history and
lifestyle play a role in increasing your risk of developing breast cancer. Staying healthy, exercising and avoiding alcohol are among the things
you can do to lower your risk of developing breast cancer. Knowing your family
history is important especially when going for a mammography.
Women should watch out for the following symptoms when examining their
breasts:
·
Appearance and shape of the breast
·
Appearance of the nipple
·
Nipple discharge
Women can perform breast exams on themselves regularly to look for these
signs and for lumps as well.
Mammograms are not pleasant, but the benefits outweigh your comfort. The
procedure is not all that complicated. This is how it is done:
·
Your breast is slowly pressed against a clear plastic plate and pressure
is applied
·
The 3D mammogram machine moves to collect images of the breast
·
Pressure is released from your breast as the machine continues to take
images of the breast.
·
The process is then done on the other breast
Additional tests may be done and a biopsy conducted to test cells for
cancer.
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