Health screening is the process of analyzing for signs of disease before the person displays actual symptoms of it. Screenings are helpful in finding disease in its earliest stages and prevention for those at higher risk of developing one.
Screenings are beneficial to doctors and scientists as they help to indentify people who are more likely to develop or acquire a disease based on several factors including their genetics, diet, exercise, and more.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer is one of most prevalent cancer types in the United States. In fact, about 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer within her lifetime.
Because of advances and improvements in treatments, earlier detection, and more the death rate of those diagnosed with breast cancer have continually decreased since 1989.
Types of Breast Cancer Screening
- Mammography
- Clinical breast examination
- Breast self-examination
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Risk assessment questionnaire
With our new electronic health record system, Epic, you can review the results of your examinations, mammogram and more just hours after your appointment.
There are several factors that may put you at a greater risk of developing breast cancer which include:
- Excess fatty tissue and obesity
- An excess of consumption of alcoholic beverages
- Poor dietary habits
- Use of tobacco products
- Inconsistent use of hormonal contraceptives
- Genetics
Filling out a risk assessment questionnaire is a great first step in prevention of breast cancer, as it will help highlight the areas that show room for improvement. Simple things like increasing your exercise regimen, improving your diet, and becoming more consistent in terms of hormonal contraceptives are all helpful in decreasing your risk for developing breast cancer.
Our MVHS Cancer team, is well-versed in the world of cancer and the toll it takes on our patients. Our team at the MVHS Cancer Center are here to offer the support through services which include: symptom management, cancer education, support groups, clinical trials, and more.
Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/screening.htm
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-screening-pdq
https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/prevention-and-healthy-living/cancer-screening
