The Importance of Self-Checks and Mammograms
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, but the good news is that early detection can dramatically improve outcomes. At Nebraska Cancer Specialists (NCS), we emphasize the importance of regular self-checks and mammograms as vital tools in the fight against breast cancer.
Self-checks are a simple, yet powerful way to monitor your breast health. By performing regular self-examinations, women can become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, making it easier to detect any changes early. Lumps, thickening, or unusual discharge are all signs that warrant immediate attention from a healthcare provider. While self-checks are not a replacement for professional screenings, they are an important step in identifying potential issues between routine mammograms.
Mammograms, however, remain the gold standard for breast cancer screening. These low-dose X-rays can detect breast cancer before any symptoms arise, often years before a lump can be felt. This early detection is crucial because breast cancer is most treatable when caught in its earliest stages. The American Cancer Society recommends that women over the age of 40 get an annual mammogram, and those with a family history of breast cancer should consider starting even earlier.
At NCS, we believe in empowering women with the tools and information they need to take charge of their health. Regular mammograms combined with self-checks offer the best defense against breast cancer by catching it early when treatments are most effective.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to prioritize your health. Schedule your mammogram, make self-checks a part of your routine, and remind the women in your life to do the same. Early detection saves lives!
