In the United States, more than 178,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women will be diagnosed this year. Thankfully, significant progress in mammography technology is helping physicians diagnose the disease earlier. In addition, the sooner breast cancer is detected, the less likely a woman will need highly invasive and uncomfortable treatments, and the more likely she will survive the disease.  As a result, breast cancer survivors make up the largest group of cancer survivors.

Mammography screening is the single most effective method of early detection. An annual mammogram is recommended for women over 40 and a clinical examination by a health care professional should be done yearly.

“Women can take charge of their breast health by performing a breast self-exam every month and understanding their personal risks of the disease—and reporting any breast change promptly to their health care provider,” said Sara Olson, Nurse Practitioner, Ministry Medical Group.  “The key to mammography screenings is that it be done routinely – once is not enough.”

Many women over the age of 60 feel that screening for breast cancer is not necessary. On the contrary, women over 60 are more at risk, not less, for breast cancer.  In an effort to encourage women to have an annual mammography screening, October 16 has been designated as National Mammography Day. On this day and throughout the month, Sacred Heart-Saint Mary’s Hospitals and Ministry Medical Group providers encourages all women to sign-up, receive, or make a commitment to get a mammogram.  Women can take charge of their breast health by having an annual mammogram, performing breast self-exams every month and understanding their personal risks of the disease—and reporting any breast change promptly to their health care provider.

For more information about breast cancer awareness visit www.nbcam.org.  To schedule an appointment with a Ministry Medical Group provider in Tomahawk call 715.453.7200 and in Rhinelander call 715.361.4700.