October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This month of the year has been recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month since 1987 when President Ronald Reagan signed a joint resolution by the United States Congress designating the month of October to educate the public about the importance of early detection and prompt treatment for breast cancer.
Early detection can save lives, and that’s why Professional Radiology wants to encourage all women age 40 and over to take advantage of our Women’s Health 3D Mammography screenings throughout the month of October at our El Paso, TX facility.
Now is the time. Contact us online or call Professional Radiology at (915) 225-2480 to schedule your screening appointment today.
The Early Signs of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a disease where abnormal cells divide without control in one or both of your breasts. This means that malignant (cancerous) and non-malignant (non-cancerous) tumors may grow and spread to other areas of your body.
The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. To that end, you should be aware of the common signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A lump in the breast or armpit (could be felt on one or both sides)
- A change in size, shape, or feel of a breast
- Discharge from a nipple
- Redness around or inside the nipple or darkening of the skin around the nipple
- Swelling under your arm
- Thickening or abnormal contour (shape) of an area near your breastbone
- Dimpling over one part of your breast which doesn’t go away when you touch it
If you have any concerns about your breasts, see your El Paso doctor for an evaluation. Your physician will do a physical examination, sometimes including mammography, as well as ask questions about your medical history and lifestyle. The earlier breast cancer is detected through diagnostic imaging, the better chance there is for successful treatment with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Screenings for Breast Cancer
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 252,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. this year alone. That number has been steadily rising over the last decade due to an aging population. Consistent mammography and diagnostic imaging appointments can help stop this number from continuing to rise.
Because breast cancer can be so serious, it’s important to get regular screenings and know your risk factors so you can discuss them with your doctor. There are many different screenings for breast cancer available. It is up to you and your doctor to decide what is right for you. They include digital breast exams (DBE), clinical breast exams (CBE), self-examination, 3D mammograms, MRI and CT scans, ultrasound, blood tests, diagnostic imaging, and biopsies.
If you find a lump or swelling in your breast during any of these screening methods you should immediately see your doctor because it can be an early warning sign of cancer. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your health and keep track of what’s going on with your body:
- Schedule regular mammograms and clinical breast exams
- Get screened if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors like high cholesterol or diabetes
- Know what symptoms to look for
- Get tested for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations
Contact Professional Radiology for Diagnostic Imaging in El Paso
If you notice something unusual, don’t hesitate to contact us. Professional Radiology is one of El Paso’s leading diagnostic imaging and mammography radiology centers. We provide a full range of imaging and testing services to better serve our community with some of the best medical technology available. Our entire staff is committed to exceptional patient care.
When it comes to breast cancer prevention and treatment, we can help you make an informed decision about your health future through expert consultation and precise diagnostic imaging, biopsies, screenings, and more. Call us at (915) 225-2480 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.