The Mammogram Discussions for Breast Cancer Continue

In this day and age when just about everyone has insurance, the question often comes up regarding why women still are not getting mammograms. For some, it is because they fear that the test is painful. For another group, it is because they are afraid of what will actually be discovered and that is that they do have a lump and that it is cancerous.

“The bottom line is that all women should do breast self-examinations. Each woman needs to discuss her own particular family history with her doctor and follow the recommendations provided by that doctor regarding mammography and any other testing suggested.”Barbara Jacoby

And then there is the group who thinks that they are way too young to possibly have cancer or any other problems so they don’t pay attention unless perhaps they have a family history. Most people want to turn their heads the other way and pretend that they couldn’t possibly have breast cancer. Perhaps they should think again.

Generally speaking, there is no reason why a mammogram should be painful. If the technician knows her job and pays attention to the patient, the testing should go very smoothly. But, even if there is a bit of pain resulting it will be over in a short period of time with no lingering effects.

And if you ask anyone who does have a regular mammogram done, she will tell you that it really is not painful but you may experience an occasional pinching sensation. I don’t believe that I know of anyone who has actually had a mammogram done who has indicated that it was really a painful experience. This is usually the excuse given by someone who doesn’t want to have it done.

Then there is the group who allows fear to keep them from having a mammogram. They are afraid that the tests will reveal that there is something wrong but the fear is so great that despite all of the logic given, they stay away. Of course they have been advised that if there is something wrong, an early diagnosis is the best thing that could happen.

This allows for the cancer to be removed hopefully before it has a chance to spread to other parts of the body. Included in this group are those who do not want to know because they do not even want to consider the idea of having to have a lumpectomy or mastectomy. They are so attached to keeping their breasts intact that they would prefer to go to their grave that way as one friend I know has done. To alter anything on the outside in a less than positive way will definitely not be allowed, even with the prospect of reconstruction.

Now we have the millennials. There is no need to even think about breast cancer. They are young and with youth goes being invincible. But, such is not always the case, even when there is no history of breast cancer in the family. While mammograms are not normally recommended for those in their 20’s, self examinations are recommended and anything that seems abnormal should immediately be referred to your doctor.

Additionally, statistics are showing that more and more young women are discovering lumps and masses that ultimately are diagnosed as cancer. My plastic surgeon reported that there has been a great increase in the number of women who are in this age group who he is treating. And I just shared a story about a 22-year-old woman who finally got a doctor to assess and diagnose her breast cancer after having been to THREE doctors who told her that it was nothing of concern.

The bottom line is that all women should do breast self-examinations. Each woman needs to discuss her own particular family history with her doctor and follow the recommendations provided by that doctor regarding mammography and any other testing suggested. If you find that you are not receiving the attention that you need regarding your concerns, you are advised to seek a second opinion or third as needed. You are always advised to consult the professionals but when in doubt about anything, trust your instincts and seek the help that you need. You won’t regret it.