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DON’T DELAY: YOUR MAMMOGRAM IS TOO IMPORTANT TO PUT OFF
What is a 3-Dmammogram? A 3-D mammogram, also cal led breast tomosynthesis, is an advanced imaging exam that combines several different breast images to create a three-dimensional view of the breast. This technology is available at all Memorial Hermann locations. “3-Dmammograms help us see through dense breast tissue. We can get a better look with a single exam, which means we don’t have to call back as many women for repeat exams, and it also helps us pick up more subtle cancers,” said Dr. Woughter. Don’t put it off. Breast cancer is themost common type of cancer among women in the United States. Early detection can save lives, and having an annual screening mammogram can help identify problems sooner, when treatments are most successful. “Finding cancer early gives youmore treatment options, especially when it comes to surgery,” says Arlene Ricardo, MD, breast surgeon affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. “When surgery is necessary, there is a much higher chance we can preserve the breast if the cancer is found when it is smaller.” Even though we are still in the midst of the pandemic, the risk of infection while having a mammogram is very low. The National Cancer Institute estimates that delayed diagnoses due to the pandemic could result in 10,000 additional deaths from breast and colorectal cancers in the next 10 years. “Be assured that we are doing everything possible to make it safe for patients to come in,” Dr. Ricardo said. “Over the past year, I have seen more cases of advanced cancer than in previous years, and I think it’s because people
When was your last screening mammogram? Has it been more than a year? Mammograms are easy to put off, especial ly during the pandemic, but sticking to an annual schedule is one of the most important things you can do for your health. The physicians affiliatedwithMemorial Hermann Health System combine expertise with leading- edge technology to providemammograms safely and conveniently. If you have delayed your mammogrambecause of the pandemic, it’s time to schedule your appointment. Your health is our top concern, and with our enhanced cleaning and safety precautions you can feel comfortable getting the care you need with peace of mind. Who needs a mammogram? The AmericanCollege of Radiology recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer begin annual screeningmammograms at age 40. Based on your individual health and family history, your healthcare provider may recommend a different schedule. In addition to an annual screeningmammogram, you may also need to be examined if you are experiencing certain breast symptoms. “Women know their own breasts better than anyone else,” says MeghanWoughter, MD, breast radiologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “If you do monthly breast self-exams, pick the same time each month and check for anything that feels different than normal. Besides lumps, other things that are potential ly worrisome are skin changes in the breast or nipple discharge.”
didn’t come in because of the pandemic. It’s not their fault, but at this point we should all be coming in for routine screenings.” Mammograms and the COVID-19 Vaccine Women are advised to wait 4 to 6 weeks after their final dose of the COVID-19 vacc ine before having a screening mammogram. Some women exper ience temporary swelling in the lymph nodes in their armpits after receiving the vaccine. This could cause a “false positive” mammog ram resu l t .
Meghan Woughter, MD Breast Radiologist Memorial Hermann Sugar Land
Arlene Ricardo, MD Breast Surgeon Memorial Hermann Southwest
However, if you are having any breast symptoms, including finding a lump, you should not put off amammogramand should contact your provider immediately. Schedule today. One lesson we have learned from the pandemic is the importance of health. It’s time to take care of yours, and scheduling your annual screening mammogram is a great way to stay healthy. Memorial Hermann offers a wide range of appointment times and convenient online scheduling for all locations across Greater Houston.
For more information, call 877.40.MAMMO or visit memorialhermann.org/breastcare
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
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BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION • MAY 2022
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