Early Detection Saves Lives
It’s a scary subject that no woman wants to think about, but it’s important to know that early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer, and mammography is the gold standard for detecting cancers of the breast before they are large enough to feel.
And while it’s true that the number of deaths from the disease has been declining, breast cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women. According to the National Cancer Institute, 230,000 new cases of breast cancer occur in American women each year, but early detection is a powerful weapon against the disease.
Screening Recommendations
“In its early stages, breast cancer often doesn’t cause pain or easily noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s important to check for breast cancer even if you feel fine,” said Dr. Hannah Chung, medical director of the Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital.
The American Cancer Society recommends routine yearly mammograms for women age 40 years or older. However, if you are at high risk for breast cancer you may benefit from a mammogram earlier. Consult with your doctor to discuss earlier screening if you are at high risk. Below are some general guidelines:
Age Breast Self-exam Clinical Breast Exam Mammogram
20–39 Monthly (optional) Every three years Only for those at high risk
40+ Monthly (optional) Annually* Annually*
*Please talk to your doctor to determine what age you should begin receiving an annual mammogram
Reducing Your Risk
Chung said the two biggest risk factors for breast cancer—your gender and your age—are beyond your control. Another risk factor out of your control is family history. If your mother, sister or daughter had breast cancer, your risk of developing the disease increases. However, about eight out of 10 women who develop breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease.
Lifestyle related risk factors are within your control. Take these steps to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer:
•Cease the use of hormone replacement therapy (linked to a possible increased breast cancer risk)
•Maintain a healthy weight
•Stay physically active
•Limit your alcohol consumption
•Don’t smoke
•New mothers are encouraged to breastfeed
Being proactive about your breast health can save your life. Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital offers digital and 3-D tomosynthesis mammograms, the results of which are interpreted by Chung, who utilizes her expertise as a breast fellowship trained radiologist specially trained to review the images and look for any abnormalities. For more information, or to schedule a mammogram, call 281-428-2273.
About Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital
Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital has provided Baytown and East Houston with quality medical care since opening its doors in 1948. The hospital has grown throughout the years with the community, providing comprehensive care at all stages of life. As a health care leader, the hospital is proud to have a fully integrated residency program focused on educating and inspiring future practitioners. Today, Houston Methodist San Jacinto provides some of the most advanced and innovative procedures while never losing focus on compassionate and patient-centered care. Houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto.
And while it’s true that the number of deaths from the disease has been declining, breast cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women. According to the National Cancer Institute, 230,000 new cases of breast cancer occur in American women each year, but early detection is a powerful weapon against the disease.
Screening Recommendations
“In its early stages, breast cancer often doesn’t cause pain or easily noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s important to check for breast cancer even if you feel fine,” said Dr. Hannah Chung, medical director of the Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital.
The American Cancer Society recommends routine yearly mammograms for women age 40 years or older. However, if you are at high risk for breast cancer you may benefit from a mammogram earlier. Consult with your doctor to discuss earlier screening if you are at high risk. Below are some general guidelines:
Age Breast Self-exam Clinical Breast Exam Mammogram
20–39 Monthly (optional) Every three years Only for those at high risk
40+ Monthly (optional) Annually* Annually*
*Please talk to your doctor to determine what age you should begin receiving an annual mammogram
Reducing Your Risk
Chung said the two biggest risk factors for breast cancer—your gender and your age—are beyond your control. Another risk factor out of your control is family history. If your mother, sister or daughter had breast cancer, your risk of developing the disease increases. However, about eight out of 10 women who develop breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease.
Lifestyle related risk factors are within your control. Take these steps to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer:
•Cease the use of hormone replacement therapy (linked to a possible increased breast cancer risk)
•Maintain a healthy weight
•Stay physically active
•Limit your alcohol consumption
•Don’t smoke
•New mothers are encouraged to breastfeed
Being proactive about your breast health can save your life. Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital offers digital and 3-D tomosynthesis mammograms, the results of which are interpreted by Chung, who utilizes her expertise as a breast fellowship trained radiologist specially trained to review the images and look for any abnormalities. For more information, or to schedule a mammogram, call 281-428-2273.
About Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital
Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital has provided Baytown and East Houston with quality medical care since opening its doors in 1948. The hospital has grown throughout the years with the community, providing comprehensive care at all stages of life. As a health care leader, the hospital is proud to have a fully integrated residency program focused on educating and inspiring future practitioners. Today, Houston Methodist San Jacinto provides some of the most advanced and innovative procedures while never losing focus on compassionate and patient-centered care. Houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto.