You may already know mammograms are essential for detecting breast cancer early, but many women hesitate to undergo the screening due to concerns about pain. However, the truth is that mammograms are generally not as painful as others tell you,
Breast calcifications are tiny deposits of calcium in breast tissue. Although you cannot feel them during a self-breast exam, they typically appear as white spots or dots on a mammogram image, especially in older women. In fact, calcifications are found
If your clinician recommends an ultrasound after a mammogram, your first question is likely, “Is something wrong?” Although you may feel a slight surge of panic, it might surprise you to learn that breast ultrasounds are quite common. They’re used
A breast lesion is an abnormal growth or lump within your breast tissue. It can appear as a single lump or manifest as a cluster of lumps, which may be benign (i.e., noncancerous) or malignant (i.e., cancerous). Therefore, it’s essential
Do women still need regular mammograms after a mastectomy? The answer is yes. If a unilateral mastectomy was performed, a mammogram on the unaffected breast is still recommended. Mammograms are the first line of defense against breast cancer. Many women
A diagnostic mammogram helps your radiologist evaluate a specific area of breast tissue in greater detail. Your doctor will generally recommend this procedure following a screening mammogram that indicates suspicious results. Though it’s normal to feel hesitant or nervous about
Annual mammograms are recommended for all women, beginning at age 40. However, if you have additional risk factors, such as a family history of cancer, your doctor may recommend starting mammograms at an earlier age or more frequently. Additionally, your
An active lifestyle plays a vital role in women’s health and well-being. But studies continue to show that physically active women are less likely to develop breast cancer than inactive women. One study revealed that women who increased their physical
Summary: Start the New Year by prioritizing breast health: schedule annual mammograms and perform regular self-checks to detect issues early. Certain vitamins, supplements, and foods—like vitamin D, curcumin, Omega-3s, flaxseed, and sulforaphane—may help support breast health. Combine screenings with a
Did you know that in 38 states, including Minnesota, the law requires providers to notify patients of their breast density status following a routine mammogram? You may have received such a letter recently, prompting a Google search on the subject
If you’re performing breast self-exams monthly, you may discover abnormal changes around your breast or armpit area. Differences may include the formation of a lump, changes to the color of your nipples, or changes to your skin’s texture around the
Did you know a physical exam, not mammography, finds nearly 40% of breast cancers? So while mammography remains the gold standard in the early detection of breast cancer, a breast self-exam can be a valuable tool. It helps women become
