In the family (1st degree relatives) or who are over 40 years old should do the exam annually. It enables the detection of breast cancer and contributes to the reduction of mortality by the disease, because the earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chances of cure.
Although the subject is often covered by the media, many women still have doubts about the. If you are one of them, this post was produced especially for you!
Mammography and its importance in detecting breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease that can be detected at an early stage, increasing the chances of cure and facilitating treatment.
Therefore, it is important that women stay alert and undergo mammography or breast ultrasound examination annually.
Many women affected by the disease report how important it was that it was detected at an early stage.
Therefore, mammography should not be feared. On the contrary, it should be seen as an important resource for detecting and diagnosing breast cancer.
Who should take the exam?
Women with cases of breast cancer in the family (mother, aunt and sister), must be alert and undergo mammography following medical advice.
What are the benefits of mammography?
By facilitating the detection of breast cancer at an early stage, mammography contributes to a less aggressive treatment. Besides increasing breast preservation, the treatment may be simple and the prognosis more favourable.
How is the examination done?
The exam is done in a device called a mammography device, where the patient's breasts are positioned and X-rayed.
The exam generates high quality images that are analyzed by radiologists looking for evidence of breast cancer.
In addition to identifying the presence of nodules and cysts, the image obtained also allows the visualization of microcalcifications that may show the appearance of breast cancer.
The exam is considered simple. The patient stands next to the mammography device and the breast is positioned and compressed between two plates. The whole procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Does mammography hurt?
Although it is a little uncomfortable, mammography is essential for an accurate diagnosis of any problem related to the breasts. To make you feel more comfortable during the procedure, schedule it after your menstrual period, since during the pre-menstrual and menstrual stages you may feel more pain due to the fact that the breasts are more swollen.
What are the recommendations for the exam?
Mammography does not require any special preparation. Just avoid using cream or talcum powder on your breasts and armpits on the day you go for the exam.
Have you scheduled your mammogram this year? If you have not had the exam and are over 40 years old, talk to your doctor or find a health center near your home.
Remember that mammography is the most effective test to detect breast cancer early.
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