October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
First, the good news: Fewer women are dying from breast cancer than before thanks to increased awareness, effective early detection screening and medical advances that improves a woman’s chances of survival.
Still, breast cancer is the number one cancer found in women, and in 2005 claimed the lives of more than 40,000 women in the U.S. And in Lancaster County, the rate is even higher.
You can improve your chances of surviving breast cancer by following these three steps:
Breast Self-Examination - You should begin practicing breast self-examination by age 20 and continue the practice throughout your life, checking for development of lumps, discharges other than breast milk, swelling, skin irritation and abnormalities.
Clinical Examination - A breast examination by a doctor or nurse trained to evaluate breast problems should be part of your physical examination. The American Cancer Society recommends a breast examination every three years for women between the ages of 20 and 39, and every year after age 40.
Mammograms - The American Cancer Society recommends that by age 40, women should have a screening mammogram every year, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
Click on these links for more related information:
You can also schedule an appointment for a mammogram by calling Lancaster General Women & Babies Hospital at 544-5941.
Return to Lancaster General Woman, Fall 2006 Issue Main Page