Mammogram Screening for Early Breast Cancer Detection
Oct 11, 2021
A mammogram is a screening test used to find breast cancer before a person has any symptoms.
Many health care facilities are providing cancer screening during the COVID-19 pandemic with safety precautions in place. It is important to continue the continuity of care during the pandemic, this includes regular screenings for breast cancer in women. The American Cancer Society encourages people to start, or restart, their recommended cancer screenings at this time. Regular screenings can help find and treat pre-cancers and cancers early before they have a chance to spread.
Looking for a breast cancer screening in Wichita, KS? HealthCore can help!
How To Get Involved
Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. HealthCore Clinic hosts many events and services in October to help raise awareness and provide resources for those looking for a breast cancer screening in Wichita, KS. We host events with a mobile mammogram clinic, pop-up breast cancer screening locations, and even free mammogram opportunities in Wichita, KS.
If you would like to join us, and millions of people around the world, in supporting awareness and resources for Breast Cancer Awareness month, here are some ways you can also get involved:
Screening, Access & Treatment
Consider making a one-time or monthly donation to help a woman in need. You can make a donation online to organizations like the American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Organization, or a local organization like HealthCore Clinic.
Support & Volunteer
Volunteer with an organization, either in-person or virtually. Help spread the word about Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn — you can also host a virtual fundraiser or Facebook fundraiser benefitting organizations like HealthCore Clinic.
Sharing & Hope
Share the story of how you or a loved one have been affected by breast cancer. Many times, we learn the most from listening to our peers and hearing stories that inspire us to take practice action. You can also proudly wear a pink ribbon during October or year-round, this is the symbol of breast cancer awareness.
Breast Cancer Screening & Mammograms
Screening for Breast Cancer
- It is recommended that women ages 40 to 44 start annual breast cancer screenings with mammograms.
- Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years, or can continue yearly screening.
- Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health.
Women should also know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to a health care provider right away.
Some women – because of their family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other risk factors – should be screened with MRIs along with mammograms. (The number of women who fall into this category is very small.) Talk with your health care provider about your risk for breast cancer and the best screening plan for you.
Mammography Screening
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast.
Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt or noticed.
What To Expect & Diagnosis
Preparing for a Mammogram Screening
When getting a mammogram, you will stand in front of a special X-ray machine. A technologist will place your breast on a plastic plate. Another plate will firmly press your breast from above. The plates will flatten the breast, holding it still while the X-ray is being taken. You will feel some pressure. The steps are repeated to make a side view of the breast. The other breast will be X-rayed in the same way. You will then wait while the technologist checks the X-rays to make sure the pictures do not need to be re-done. Keep in mind that the technologist cannot tell you the results of your mammogram. Each woman’s mammogram may look a little different because all breasts are a little different.
Having a mammogram is uncomfortable for most women. Some women find it painful. A mammogram takes only a few moments, though, and the discomfort is over soon. What you feel depends on the skill of the technologist, the size of your breasts, and how much they need to be pressed. Your breasts may be more sensitive if you are about to get or have your period. A breast cancer doctor with special training, called a radiologist, will read the mammogram. He or she will look at the X-ray for early signs of breast cancer or other problems.
Breast Cancer Screening Locations
Where Can I Get a Mammogram?
There are many breast cancer screening locations, sometimes called a mammogram clinic. It is best to speak with your doctor or health provider first to get a recommendation. Your doctor may have a mammogram onsite or have an organization they refer patients to.
When searching for breast cancer screening near me, mammogram screening near me, or cancer screening near me, you may encounter many ads for things like “breast cancer screening Wichita, KS” or “mammogram Wichita, KS.” The best practice is to speak with your medical provider and make a plan. If you do not have a medical provider or doctor, HealthCore Clinic offers Women’s Health & Wellness services, including OB/GYN care, family planning, Early Detection Works (EDW) providers, and free breast & cervical cancer screening programs. If you are searching for “free mammogram Wichita, KS” — contact HealthCore Clinic today.
