Breast cancer is among the most common cancers affecting millions of women yearly worldwide. Early detection of the signs of breast cancer contributes largely to good treatment outcomes and survival rates. Mammography, which employs a specialized imaging technique, is considered the gold standard for detecting early breast cancer. Signs that an individual might have to see a physician about a mammography test are important for maintaining breast health and getting an early medical intervention.
Warning Signs That You Have to Look Out For
Some physical and observable signs may suggest the need for undergoing mammography. Some of these signs are:
- Breast lumps: Feeling a lump or swelling, or some thickened part in between the breast or underarm is the most common indication. Not all lumps are malignant; however, they should be verified by a medical professional at once.
- Change in size or shape of the breast: Any swelling which cannot be explained, shrinkage or asymmetry becomes very noticeable regarding the breasts; most likely it may cause some underlying problem.
- Skin Changes: Redness, dimpling, or “orange-peel” texture on the breast skin are possible signs of concern.
- Nipple Abnormalities: Any discharge (especially bloody), or retraction-, or inversion-of-nipple should be evaluated when viewed.
- Continued Pain: While it is normal for tenderness to be experienced now and again, a continuous pain in one or both breasts is a red flag.
Self-Examination
Regular observation and self-examination are very important practices in monitoring breast condition. It therefore recommends that women:
- Conduct Monthly Self-Exams: Check for lumps, differences in surface texture, and visible changes in the breasts. The best time to do this is a few days after the end of the menstrual cycle.
- Know Family History: Breast cancer history in the family of an individual increases his or her risk, hence the need for closer surveillance.
Healthcare Professional Physical Exam
Another part of a self-examination is to visit a healthcare professional for a clinical breast exam, as this type of examination is also important in the regular monitoring of women’s breast health. Physical examination would help in detecting some abnormalities which may not be detected during self-examination.
Why is Mammography Important?
Mammography has the capacity of finding breast problem long before it can be felt or seen. It uses low dose X-ray technique to get good pictures of breast tissues which will be used to find the following:
- Very Minute Calcifications: This might point towards early breast cancer.
- Mass: Benign and malignant mast, either need further investigation.
- Structural Change: Small change in density of tissue may show potential problems.
Mammograms are most important for women beyond the age of 30 and those with a higher risk group of developing breast cancers due to genetic or lifestyle reasons. They increase the chance of diagnosing cancer when it is still treatable and, hence, a large percentage will see much better outcomes.
Remember, early detection saves lives-schedule a mammography if you notice any concerning signs or as part of your routine health care plan.