Break the taboob: The lowdown on breast screening
Let's talk about breast cancer screenings. Getting checked regularly is super important for your breast health.
Why get it done? Screening helps detect any signs of breast cancer early, when it's often easier to treat and has a better chance of being cured.
Remember, taking care of yourself includes regular screenings. So, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor about when to get checked and how often. Your health matters!
What is Breast cancer?
Did you know that breast cancer can affect anyone, but it's more common in women?
How does it happen? Breast cancer starts when cells in the breast grow out of control and form a lump or abnormal growth. You can sometimes feel these changes yourself or find them during screenings like mammograms.
The lowdown on the test
What’s the deal? It is an x-ray of breast tissue that can find changes too small to be felt by you. .
The process: Each of your breast is compressed between two x-ray plates to get a clear picture. Both breasts are examined, usually with two x-ray pictures taken of each. While it can be uncomfortable, the process is quick and painless.
How often? Regularly! Your doc will let you know the best schedule for you.
Where to do it: You can get it done at your local Breast Screen clinic. You can also find a pop up clinic
On the day of your appointment
Getting your mammogram today? There are some things you need to remember.
Skip the talcum powder and deodorant—it can mess with the x-rays of your breasts.
Wear a top and pants or a skirt to keep your lower half covered during the screening.
Be sure to show up 10 minutes early so you can breeze through the paperwork.
Bring your Medicare card if you've got one.
What happens if it comes back positive?
If a mammogram comes back positive, it means they spotted something in your breast that needs a closer look. Don't stress—it could be lots of things, not just cancer. At this stage your doctocer may ask you to do more tests like, an ultrasound or biopsy, to figure out what's going on.
Want to know more?
For a visual of the process of getting a mammograms go to the BreastScreen Australia website
And there are all the deets on the Cancer Council website
