October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
OCTOBER IS NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer to occur in women. 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Early detection is key to treatment and survival. Mammograms are the most common screening test for breast cancer and they can help detect the cancer earlier, while it’s easier to treat. While we do recommend screening self-exams, they can only go so far and tests with higher detection rates are needed.
Types of Mammograms
A screening mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breasts. This type of mammogram is used for women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. A diagnostic mammogram is performed for women who have shown signs or symptoms of the disease. The process is the same, however, more pictures of the breast are taken for diagnostic purposes. Both mammograms do involve a small amount of radiation and therefore should not be performed on pregnant women.
Who should get a Mammogram?
The American Cancer Society, The National Comprehensive Cancer Network and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force are three major health organizations that have slightly differing guidelines for screening mammograms. But they all agree on informed decision making between the patient and their provider, starting at 40 years of age in women with average risk. Screening mammograms can be done every year or every two years, as long as the patient is in good health.
For women with a higher risk for breast cancer, they should be screened earlier and more frequently. To find out if you have a higher risk for breast cancer and what the screening guidelines are, please click here. Your genetics can play a large part of this increased risk of breast cancer. Here at Elevated Health we are proud to offer CancerNext by Ambry, a comprehensive genetic test.We are one of the only primary care clinics in Southern California offering this renowned test; and we offer the test at an affordable, at cost, rate.
What are some of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
The most common symptoms of breast cancer include:
-
Feeling a lump in the breast area, with or without pain
-
Change in breast shape or size
-
Dimple or puckering in breast
-
A nipple turning inward into the breast
-
Nipple discharge other than breast milk, especially if it is bloody
-
Scaly, red, darkened or swollen skin in the breast area
-
Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
-
Dimple, pitted appearance or feel (similar to an orange peel) in the breast area
-
Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes around the breast area, including the collarbone and armpits
Although these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, you should check with a doctor — preferably a breast health specialist — so they can make a definitive diagnosis.
How can I schedule a Mammogram?
Elevated Health members can get screening mammograms at select local imaging centers for as low as $75. We are also able to order this screening test through your insurance. If we can get it approved (and we usually do!) the test would be a $0 cost to you. Alternatively, AltaMed Huntington Beach (8041 Newman Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647) and the YWCA of Orange County are offering free or discounted screening mammograms for qualifying participants. Please call the YWCA directly at 714-871-4488 to see if you qualify.
We also offer our members breast ultrasounds here in the office with our sonographer, Ivette, for only $85. Ultrasounds can also be used as screening tools, but without the radiation and discomfort of a mammogram.
The most important thing to remember is to discuss all options and risks with your provider. Together you guys will come up with a treatment and prevention plan that best suits your needs. Help us spread the word! Early detection is key!
About the Author
Matthew Abinante is a board-certified family physician providing direct primary care to patients of all ages. Offering excellent care, diagnosis, and techniques, he continually participates in educational opportunities to best serve his patients. Working in Huntington Beach, he analyzes common aches and pains, proposes innovative treatment plans, and provides specialized services for each individual patient.
After excelling for years, Matthew received his DO and MPH from Touro University in Vallejo, CA. Matthew completed his residency training at PIH Health Hospital in Downey, CA, where he became a board-certified and trusted family physician who values patient-doctor relationships and clear communication.
Sources:
-
National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society
