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Women's Health
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According to the latest American Cancer Society estimates, nearly 216,000 American women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. This alarming statistic illustrates the direct need for women to be proactive when it comes to their health - especially regarding early detection and eradication. While many women are aware that they should begin incorporating mammograms into their health screenings at age 40, a great deal of confusion exists about whether or not women should forego a traditional mammogram in lieu of an ultrasound test. While many women may express a desire to undergo a particular test based upon a friend's experience or what they have read, the fact of the matter is that both mammograms and ultrasound tests are effective diagnostic tools and your physician will recommend the proper test based on your individual needs. Mammography remains the single most effective preliminary screening tool available for detecting breast cancer because it creates an image of the two types of breast tissues - fatty and fibroglandular - as well as any abnormal growth patterns. Ultrasound, on the other hand, is a secondary test that is typically ordered when questionable or suspicious areas appear on a mammogram as it can be particularly effective in detecting cancerous growth among those with dense breast tissue, post-menopausal women undergoing hormone replacement therapy, those with breast implants, and pregnant women. Depending on the specific needs of the patient, physicians may or may not utilize both types of tests. This is because: • Some cancers can only be seen on a mammogram and cannot be seen on ultrasound or felt by hand • Some preliminary cancer diagnoses may be confirmed using a supplementary ultrasound after initial detection on a mammogram; • In some instances, particular cancers can be seen using both mammograms and ultrasound tests but not felt • And some cancerous growths can only be felt by hand and visualized using either a mammogram or an ultrasound. Self-exams are key Neither a mammogram nor an ultrasound test should preclude women from undertaking regular breast self-examinations as they are a key element to early detection of breast cancer. These simple exams are vital to one's health and all women ages 20 and older should thoroughly examine their breasts for lumps on a monthly basis. Unfortunately, many women simply are not aware of the most effective technique for conducting breast self-examinations and while they may be examining themselves regularly, they may not be doing so effectively. The best time to conduct a breast self-examination is one week after the end of a woman's menstrual cycle. A simple and effective method for the self-exam is known as the circular technique, which can be performed quickly and easily in the following fashion: • View each breast in the mirror, looking for any signs of dimpling, swelling or redness and/or changes to the nipple. • Lie down with a pillow under the shoulder. Place one arm behind the head. • Use the middle fingers of the opposite hand to press for any suspicious lumps, moving slowly in a circular fashion around the breast. Press firmly. A firm ridge in the lower curvature of the breast is normal. • Move the pillow to the opposite shoulder and repeat the exam. • Repeat the self-exam standing up. For added effectiveness, conduct this part of the exam while showering with the skin wet and soapy. Pay particular attention to the upper and outer part of the breast, as these areas are where most lumps are detected. Make a mental note of how each breast feels so that any differences will draw your attention during future exams. Any changes, however subtle, should be brought to the attention of a physician. By exploring their ideal diagnostic options with their physician and incorporating regular self-examinations into their health-care routines, women can rest assured that they are doing all they can to avoid breast cancer and enjoy the best possible quality of life. Dr. Margaret S. Audell is a board certified OB/Gyn and principal member of Orange Coast Women's Medical Group in Laguna Hills, one of Southern California's foremost medical practices dedicated exclusively to treating women. Information: www.ocwmg.com or call 949.829.5500. Breast Cancer Websites One of the fighters in the breast cancer battle is the Susan G. Komen Foundation, which hosts the annual Race for the Cure nationwide, including Orange County and the Inland Empire. The Inland Empire race is Oct. 17 in Temecula. Information: 909.695.0457 or www.iekomen.com For more facts and information, go to our sister publication, OC METRO Magazine. And click on the Cover Story for the Sept. 19 issue at ocmetro.com. • The official website for the American Cancer Society provides information, support groups and local community resources. (www.cancer.org) • An online service of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation features breast health and breast cancer facts, a Q&A, resources, and treatment options. (www.breastcancerinfo.com) • The area's Orange County and Inland Empire chapters of the Komen Founation have designated websites: www.ockomen.com and www.iekomen.com • Support groups, resources and summer camp programs are listed at Kids Konnected's website, which serves children of parents with cancer. (www.kidskonnected.org) • UCI Medical Center offers a variety of featured articles covering cancer specialties, including breast cancer. (www.ucihealth.com/cancer) - Compiled by OC Family Magazine |
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