Schedule a screening this National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As the name indicates, this month is all about alerting the public to the realities of this devastating disease and encouraging people to get screened. As early detection is the most powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer, it’s incredibly important that you get screened on a regular basis. Here’s what you need to know about scheduling your breast cancer screening this month.
Mammograms
Mammograms are the most common test that doctors use to screen for breast cancer. This test uses x-rays to examine breast tissues for tumors or abnormalities that may be too small to feel. Women between the ages of 45 and 54 should receive annual mammograms. Once you hit age 55, mammograms should take place every two years. Women between the ages of 40 and 44 should have the option to start receiving mammograms early.
Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)
A clinical breast exam is a physical breast examination conducted by a doctor or other health professional. During this test, your doctor will feel for any lumps or irregularities on your breasts and underneath your arms. This screening method can be administered to both women and men. While male breast cancer is relatively uncommon, men with a family history of the disease should speak to their doctors about receiving this screening option.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRIs are generally used as a screening method for women who are at higher risk for developing breast cancer. For instance, this screening method is usually performed on women with the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, a family history of breast cancer, or certain genetic syndromes such as Li-Fraumeni or Cowden syndrome.
This is what you should know about breast cancer screening this National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Make sure that you are proactive and get your screening scheduled this October. Want another way to take care of yourself this month? Make sure you have the right personal insurance protections in place. For assistance with all your coverage needs, contact the team at Steve Wilk Insurance Agency. Located in Illinois, check out our new office at 310 S Main Street, Suite C, Lombard, IL 60148.