One out of every eight women will have breast cancer during her lifetime. But with early detection, the cure rate for breast cancer can be as high as 96%. Here are three things you can do to protect yourself:
Have an annual physical examination.
Practice regular breast self-examination. The American Cancer Society recommends monthly self-exams for women over age 20. The ACS also recommends a clinical exam every three years between the ages of 20-39, and every year if you are 40 or over.
Schedule a mammogram regularly. The ACS recommends women age 40 or over get a mammogram every year. Your doctor may suggest changes to the standard schedule based on your personal or family history.
Breast cancer that is found early can be treated more effectively. You can also greatly increase your chances for a complete recovery. Practice the three simple steps and schedule your next mammogram at one of Methodist's convenient locations:
Screening mammograms are for patients who have no breast symptoms and no abnormality on physical examination. The screening mammogram is used to detect breast cancer in a patient when finding breast cancer is a completely unexpected finding.
Methodist Healthcare is an integrated health care delivery system,
dedicated to the art of healing through our faith-based commitment to minister to the whole person. 1211 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104 • (901) 516-7000
