Discover Free And Low Cost Mammogram Programs - Don't Skip This Vital Yearly Exam

 Most women know the importance of having a yearly mammogram once they've reached the age of 40. Every year there are hundreds of groups spreading the word about the importance of mammograms, inundating the media with pink ribbons and information.

However, many women have let years go by without scheduling their mammograms. For one reason or another, there are still far too many women who are not getting routine mammograms and are falling behind in this crucial tool in their breast health.

One reason women may be skipping their yearly mammogram may be that they believe breast self-exams or clinical exams will give them the information they need to detect any irregularities that need further examination.

However, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), even though doing breast self-exams is an important part of your overall breast health, it does not replace having a mammogram. Mammograms have been shown to decrease the risk of dying from breast cancer due to early detection. Physical examinations, no matter how diligent, fall short of finding smaller lumps.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) describes the three most widely used methods for detecting changes in breast tissue that may signal further examination, and they state their recommendation pretty clearly:

1) Mammogram - This is an X-ray of the breast. Mammograms detect breast cancer in its early stages when it is easier to treat. This method of looking at the breast tissue may find irregularities before they are large enough to feel. Regular mammograms can help lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. The CDC recommends a regularly scheduled mammogram every one to two years if you are 40 years or older.

2) Clinical breast exam - This is a physical examination of the breast by a doctor or nurse. Lumps and other physical changes in the breast appearance are what the doctor is in search of when he or she palpates the breast tissue by hand.


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