By Dr. Cara Guilfoyle, Breast Surgeon
While October headlines are often full of somber statistics, there is good news when it comes to breast cancer and women. As a result of increased vigilance among women about getting regular mammograms, we are catching breast cancer earlier, and we now have a five-year survival rate of 90% in the U.S.
As a physician, I can’t emphasize enough just how important mammograms are. That should be an annual screening beginning at age 40. It’s also important to know your risk profile. For women with a family history of breast cancer, I strongly recommend getting a risk assessment and, if indicated, genetic testing. Through that testing we are able to identify genetic mutations that can signal a higher likelihood of getting breast cancer.
For women with higher risk profiles, we might recommend starting mammograms earlier, and may even order a breast MRI. In addition to that enhanced surveillance, we can also look at various things to reduce the risk, including chemoprevention medications, lifestyle modification, and in some cases surgery.
Dr. Guilfoyle recently appeared on KUTV in Salt Lake City to discuss breast care. Watch the segment here.
I hear many of my patients talk about how they are too busy to get a mammogram, are worried that it will hurt, or are afraid that it might detect something. Here are my answers to those concerns:
- I don’t know many women who can’t find time for a hair color, cut, or other style appointment. I promise that a mammogram is a much greater priority than your hair.
- Most women describe the mammogram itself as uncomfortable but not painful.
- If there is something found, the sooner it is detected, the more easily and effectively it can be treated.
So this October, promise to prioritize your health – and start by scheduling your next (or first) mammogram.
Learn more about breast health and breast care, including how to schedule an appointment at a clinic close to you.
