Breast cancer screening
Breast cancer screening typically involves various methods such as mammography, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams. These screenings aim to identify abnormalities or signs of cancerous growth in breast tissue. Early detection through screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of successful recovery. Regular screenings are recommended based on age, family history, and other risk factors, with guidelines varying among healthcare organizations. Despite debates surrounding overdiagnosis and false positives, breast cancer screening remains a vital tool in the fight against this prevalent disease.
When do we start screening?
First step of screening is Being Breast Aware, starts in 20s, wherein you find out what your risk of breast cancer is, form an opinion about your breasts and most importantly start doing monthly breast self examination.
So what are breast cancer screening tests that you must do in addition to being breast aware, after turning 40?
Clinical Breast Exams! Conducted by doctors, they meticulously examine your breasts and surrounding areas, looking for any abnormalities that may signal breast cancer. Mammography! Low-dose X-rays capture breast tissue images. It's much more sensitive than a clinical breast exam. 3D mammography is called tomosynthesis.
How do we screen before 40 yrs ?
Women with family history and or higher than avg risk of breast cancer, have to start screening in their late20s/30s even. Such younger Women or women with dense breasts, may need different or additional screening tests like ultrasound ie sono mammography or MRI at times.
Remember. By undergoing regular screening, we can catch breast cancer in its early stage and maximize survival. Breast self exams, clinical breast exams and mammography are all necessary tools for breast cancer screening.We have to use the correct tool as per your age , symptoms and risk of breast cancer.