 | Bridgette Rupp PA
has been a practicing physician assistant at Augusta Internal Medicine in Augusta, Kansas since January 2004. She graduated with a Bachelors degree from Wichita State University in May 2000 and has experience in both internal medicine and psychiatry. You can reach Bridgette at her office (316) 775-0300. |
Health & Medicine
2004-03-01 14:01:00
When do I start mammograms?
Bridgette Rupp
Question: What are the risk factors for breast cancer? At what age should I start having a mammogram?
ANSWER: Breast cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women ages 40-55. The American Cancer Society estimates that 193,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and at least 40,000 will die from the disease this year. Through mammography breast cancer is highly detectable. The earlier it is diagnosed, the greater the chance of survival. The precise cause of breast cancer is unclear. However, risk factors have been identified and are: female gender, increased age, family history, Caucasian women, and menstruation before age 12 or menopause after age 55. You can reduce your risk of breast cancer by having children before age 30, breast feeding, limiting alcohol to one drink daily, maintaining healthy weight, exercise regularly and of course pursuing mammograms as recommended by your physician. A mammogram is a radiograph of the breast. Although the radiation exposure for a mammogram is greater than from a regular chest x-ray, it is still low and comparable to the annual radiation exposure from environmental sources. It is recommended to get a baseline mammogram between ages 35-40 or sooner if risk factors exist. Then every 1-2 years from age 40-50 and yearly for ages 50 and up. Additional reasons for obtaining a mammogram at any age include palpable lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge or inversion, breast pain or swollen armpit lymph nodes. Women with breast implants should also have regular mammographic screening. Breast implants have not been associated with an increased risk of cancer, but the opacity of implants may make cancer less likely to be detected.Many patients are concerned and apprehensive about the amount of pain associated with the mammographic procedure. It can be uncomfortable but very much tolerable. The exam takes 10-15 minutes and includes two mammograms of each breast from different views. To make your experience as pleasant as possible, here are a few tips: • Avoid wearing deodorant the day of your mammogram• Wear a two-piece outfit to undress from the waist up• Schedule shortly after period ends to decrease breast tendernessRemember, the temporary discomfort of a mammogram far outweighs the possibility of saving your life in the long run! Please, keep performing self-breast exams preferably the same day of each month after your period has ended to decrease the likelihood of tenderness. If you are unsure of how to perform your self-breast exam, contact your physician.
