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| You are at risk developing cancer simply because you are a woman. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in woman. Woman of all ages get breast cancer. However, it becomes more common as a woman grows older. |
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| If your mother, sister or daughter has breast cancer, you are at some increased risk. However, most women, especially those aged 40 and above, should be concerned about breast cancer. |
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| A mammogram is a special x-ray of the breasts. The x-ray shows the glands, fat and blood vessels under the skin of the breasts. It also shows the muscles in the underarm area. |
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| Mammography is a safe test. The radiation does is extremely low and carefully monitored. Any possible risk with modern mammography is negligible compared to the proven benefits. |
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| Regardless of the result of your screening mammogram, you need to talk to your doctor if you notice a change in your breasts such as: |
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a lump |
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thickening |
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swelling |
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pain |
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nipple discharge |
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retraction (the nipple or skin being pulled in) |
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| Breast cancer frequently can be cured if it is found when it is small and has not spread to other parts of the body. Early detection makes it possible to give treatment and still save the breast, Screening mammography is the key to early detection. It is the only way to find breast cancer before it can be felt. |
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Do not apply any perfume, deodorant, powder or ointment to the underarm area or on the breast on the day of the examination. This may produce shadows on your mammogram. |
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For your convenience, wear a two-piece outfit, a skirt or slacks and a top. |
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Try not to schedule the mammogram near the menstrual period because breasts tend to be more tender than usual at that time. |
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Bring along with you the pictures of mammograms you have had before. |
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