October is an anticipated month for many people as there is excitement about cooler weather, pumpkin lattes, and fall decorations. It also reminds women to get mammograms, as October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 1 in 8 American women face the risk of developing breast cancer, as it’s the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
It’s encouraging that death rates have declined, a testament to the progress in early detection. This reinforces the importance of getting a mammogram. It’s a beacon of hope, for all women but particularly for black women who face a higher risk of a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis.
Central Florida Health Care Women’s Health APRN Jennifer Sapp says, “Detecting cancer early is the best way to manage, treat, and survive breast cancer and a mammogram screening is the biggest key to early detection.”
Sapp says a mammogram is imaging of the breast with x-rays to screen for breast cancer or for other diagnostic purposes. The process uses a specialized machine called a mammography machine that uses X-rays to image the breast tissue. Screening mammograms are recommended annually for women 40 and over. Diagnostic mammograms may be used if a patient or provider finds something irregular during a breast exam. A diagnostic mammogram may be performed if a patient presents symptoms that may signal cancer, such as changes in texture or appearance, which can be found during a regular self-exam.
Thanks to a county grant, Central Florida Health Care has received new mammography machines that will be in the Davenport and Lake Wales Health Centers. For the last 9 years, the CFHC Breast Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament has raised money to help patients pay for mammograms who can’t afford them. They would go to another location to have the procedure done. But soon, patients can have a mammogram in-house and talk to their provider about the results.
While family history is a risk factor, most breast cancers diagnosed are not hereditary. This means that you have the power to influence your risk. Lifestyle and environmental factors can play a significant role. Maintaining healthy weight, limiting drinking alcohol, eating a more nutritious diet, and staying active can enhance your body’s defense system. It’s also vital to have breast self-awareness and to be vigilant in identifying any changes in your body.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our OB/GYN providers, call 866-234-8534.
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