In honor of October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, DAP Health is providing mammography screening events in Riverside and San Diego counties.
Words by Kay Kudukis
This year in the U.S., the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 321,910 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Another 60,730 will be diagnosed with a non-invasive form of the disease. The number for men is about 2,670, and they almost always present with a lump or nipple discharge. Women often have no indication.
This October marks the 41-year anniversary of the ACS’ first Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Each year since, the world shines a bright pink spotlight on even brighter pink ribbons as we walk and run for the cure — and that is truly wonderful. DAP Health’s message this year is specifically for women 40 and older who have breast tissue: It’s time to get your yearly mammogram.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that can spot abnormalities and detect tumors early, greatly improving survival rates. It takes less than an hour to ensure your breasts are healthy. So, what’s keeping so many of us from making the appointment?
Common Misconceptions
“It hurts.” It doesn’t. Is it awkward? Yeah. It’s new, and someone is placing your breasts between two metal plates. But it’s far less awkward than your first pelvic exam. Make an appointment.
“No one in my family has had breast cancer, so I’m at less of a risk.” Only about five to 10% of breast cancer is caused by inherited mutations. About 70 to 80% occur with no family history and no inherited mutation. Make an appointment.
“My OB-GYN did a breast exam.” Tumors you can’t feel are about 40 to 60% of breast cancers and are only detected through mammograms. Make an appointment.
“40 is the new 30.” Your breasts are still 40. Make an appointment.
I’ve Never Had a Mammogram. What’s It Like?
It’s not the least bit scary. Your technician is highly trained in radiology, has passed the national ARRT exam, gone through specialized training in mammography, and furthers their education every two years. My point? You are in very good (and gentle) hands.
During the exam, your job will be to stand. Your technician will tell you which way. They will position one breast at a time between two plates. There’ll be a little squeeze, and the camera will capture breast images from different angles. Images will then be sent to a radiologist who reads them. You will get dressed and go out for a fabulous lunch (optional, but highly recommended), and you’ll get the results in a few days.
Pump Up the Pink
DAP Health wants to make breast health easier for the more than 30,000 women in its care. If you’re over 40 and have breast tissue, it’s time to get your mammogram. To that purpose, the nonprofit has established screenings this October for asymptomatic individuals (no breast lumps or breast/chest symptoms). Insured and uninsured patients are welcome.
“By bringing mammogram events directly to DAP Health clinics throughout October, we’re removing transportation barriers and meeting patients where they already feel safe and supported,” says Director of Operations for OB-GYN and Behavioral Health Brenda McDermott. “With familiar staff, welcoming patient navigators, and a streamlined paperwork process, we’re making it easier — and more comfortable — for everyone, especially first-timers, to get the screenings they need.”
“A screening mammogram can be the moment that saves a life,” adds Director of OB-GYN Services Dr. Rhett Papa. “When breast cancer is found early, it’s often highly treatable — and in many cases, curable. That’s why we urge every patient not to wait. Early detection gives us the best chance to protect your health and your future. If not for yourself, please do it for the people you love, and who love and need you.”
To schedule an appointment at the location nearest to you, please click here.
To read our article about breast cancer in men, please click here.
