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Mammography
| General Information | What is a mammogram | Who needs one | Benefits of a mammogram | What to do when you find a lump | Local Practitioners |
General information
Breast cancer is the number one cause of death by cancer in women. About one in every two women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives.
An early sign of breast cancer can be a lump that can be felt but not seen. For this reason, doctors encourage women to examine themselves monthly for the early detection of lumps. If you discover a lump, see your doctor immediately; a mammogram may be recommended. This procedure consists of a low dose x-ray of the breast which can help diagnose the lump which has been discovered, as well as show a lump so small it can not yet be felt through manual examination.
High risk groups include women over 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer. A baseline or comparison x-ray is suggested for all women between 35 and 40 years of age. The American Cancer Society then recommends a mammogram every two years between the ages of 40 to 50. A guideline calls for a mammogram every year after age 50.
A rate of cure for breast cancer is relatively high when the disease is detected in it early states. If you have questions about self-examination or suspect you may be at high risk, contact your physician.
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