Audubon, IA, October 24, 2023 – During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ACMH has been actively sharing the importance of regular mammography screenings within the Audubon Community at local events and on social media.
The American Cancer Society breast screening guidelines recommend adult women begin annual screenings at age 45, with the option of beginning at age 40.
Jessica Fastert, ACMH Radiology Department Director reminds us that October isn’t the only month to join in the fight against breast cancer.
Fastert states, “Many women tend to schedule their mammogram during their birthday month because it is easy to remember. It is important to schedule your yearly screenings no matter what month you come in. As a reminder, if you develop any concerns or notice any changes since your last mammogram, make an appointment with your family provider right away.”
For normal screenings patients can self-refer and contact Audubon County Hospital Radiology Department at 712-563-5315 to schedule a mammogram. If patients have any concerns or symptoms with their breasts, patients should schedule an appointment with their family provider first.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States and is one of the leading causes of death in women between the ages of 30 and 55. About 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer during her life. Although most breast cancers are diagnosed in older women, in rare cases breast cancer does affect women under the age of 45. About 9% of all breast cancer cases in the United States are found in women younger than 45 years of age. Breast cancer in young women is more likely to be hereditary than breast cancer in older women and more likely to be found at a later stage, when it is often more aggressive and difficult to treat. Many young women do not know their risk for breast cancer or ways to manage their risk.
Talking to your doctor about understanding your cancer risk and ways to be proactive about your health may help you lower your risk for getting breast cancer at a young age or find it at an early stage when treatment works best.
Different people have different symptoms of breast cancer. Some people have no signs or symptoms at all. It is important for you to know the symptoms of breast cancer.
Some warning signs of breast cancer are:
- New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
- Pain in any area of the breast.
- A breast is red and feels warm.
If you have any signs or symptoms that worry you, be sure to see your doctor right away. They may be caused by something other than cancer. The only way to know what is causing them is to see your doctor.”
Call 712-563-5315 to schedule your mammogram today at Audubon County Memorial Hospital and Clinics.
ACMH staff wearing pink and supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month!