Early detection and early treatment are among the most effective strategies for beating breast cancer. Routine breast exams allow doctors to identify lumps and other irregularities that may be cause for concern. With just 11 percent of breast cancers throughout the world appearing in women younger than 45, and with women under 40 esteemed as being too young for effective breast cancer screening, breast exams are yet another defining part of entering the "golden years". Following is everything you need to know about setting the right breast exam schedule as you age.
What Are the Benefits of Scheduling a Breast Exam in Metairie?
Residents of New Orleans, Westwego, Kenner, and Metairie can greatly increase their likelihood of surviving breast cancer by having regular screenings performed. In fact, with early detection, the average five-year survival rate is as high as 99 percent. When these exams are performed regularly and when few to no risk factors for cancer exist, they're quick, easy, and ultimately hassle-free. Breast exams can be completed during your normal gynecological or general wellness appointments. In addition to providing patients with peace of mind, these routine checks give women the chance to ask their doctors about any changes in their breast tissue, breast integrity, or general breast comfort.
Are There Drawbacks?
Given their overall ease and convenience, and the many benefits they provide, it may be difficult to imagine breast exams as having potential drawbacks. However, there are a few that are worthy of note. For instance, there are:
- Risk of overdiagnosis
- Risk of false positives
- Potential for additional and undue testing
With overdiagnosis, small, benign lumps and low-risk tumors may be esteemed as being more serious than they are. Moreover, mammogram tests are effective but imperfect. The potential for false positives can lead to both psychological stress and the physical discomfort of additional, unnecessary testing. As such, the recommended schedule for breast exams reflects a balanced consideration of both the benefits and drawbacks of screening for optimum harm reduction.
Risk Factors of Breast Cancer and Family History
Before age is accounted for when recommending a screening schedule, doctors consider the risk factors of the individual. For instance, you may require more frequent breast cancer screenings than generally advised if:
- You've had breast cancer before
- You're currently in remission for another cancer type
- One or more of your immediate family members has or has had breast cancer
- You're obese
- You've had significant radiation exposure
If you have these or any other risk factors, ask your doctor to give you an individualized plan for ongoing screening.
The Recommended Schedule for Breast Exams at Each Age and Stage of Life
If you don't have a personal or family history of cancer, your routine breast exams should start at 45. However, if women wish to do so, they have the option of beginning annual breast exams at 40 that include x-rays/mammograms of the breasts. At the age of 55, women can be scheduling screenings just once every two years. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer screenings should be continued every two years from the age of 55 until the age of 75, or as long as women remain in good general health and are expected to live for another 10 years or more.
Senior Helpers of Metairie Can Get You to and From Your Appointments
The increasing amount of preventative care that's required as people grow older can become overwhelming. Adding regular breast exams to your preventative healthcare routine doesn't have to be a challenge. Contact us to help you get to and from your doctor's appointments. In addition to transportation assistance, our companion care includes reminder services, assistance with general errands, and home safety evaluations among other things. We also offer surgery assistance and sitter services as needed. Get in touch with us today to find out more!