Frequently Asked Questions What is a mammogram and what can it detect? A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that shows what the breast looks like on the inside. It can detect non-cancerous and cancerous changes in the breast such as cysts, lumps, and calcifications. Is there risk involved in having a mammogram? Because the test is an x-ray, you will be exposed to a small dose of radiation. A typical mammogram takes only 2 pictures of each breast. Does a mammogram always find changes? No, there are times that a mammogram result will be normal but a lump is felt upon exam. Anytime a woman finds a lump she should see her doctor to have it evaluated even if her mammogram was okay. Because mammograms are not 100% accurate, women need to perform a monthly breast exam, have a yearly clinical exam and a mammogram starting at age 40. All 3 steps are a vital part of a woman's breast health plan. If I have no symptoms, why do I need to get a mammogram every year after age 40? A mammogram is able to detect changes before you or your doctor will be able to feel a lump or notice any other symptoms with the breast. The risk for breast cancer increases as a woman ages so that is why one is needed on a yearly basis after age 40. Do I need an order from my physician to schedule a mammogram? Yes, in most cases you will need to get an order from your physician to schedule the procedure. Who actually does the mammogram? A trained technologist will work with you and perform the actual procedure. If you have questions/concerns about your procedure, speak to the technologist so she can explain things to you and make your experience a positive one. Where can I get a mammogram in McLean County?
 What if your Pink Partner says NO to a Mammogram So why are so many women not getting their yearly mammograms? The following reasons are some typical responses that women may provide to avoid getting a mammogram. Provided under each reason is a counter-reason which can be used as a suggested response to a family member or friend who provides one of the following excuses. I'm afraid that it will hurt. You will feel some pressure during the procedure. The pressure may be uncomfortable, but it will only last for a few seconds and is necessary in order to obtain a good picture of your breasts. If you have menstrual periods, schedule your exam for 1 or 2 weeks prior to the start of your period; your breast may be less tender at this time. The mammogram technician can answer any questions that you may have and will make your mammogram experience as comfortable as possible. There is no history of breast cancer in my family. All women are at risk, especially as they grow older. Most women who get breast cancer say that there is no history of breast cancer in their family. My doctor has not spoken to me about getting a mammogram. As a woman gets older, her risk of getting breast cancer increases. The Community Cancer Center, along with other national cancer organizations, recommends that all women who are 40 and older should have an annual mammogram. Discuss your risk factors with your health care provider and speak with him/her about scheduling a mammogram today. I have not experienced any symptoms. In the early stages, breast cancer causes no symptoms. Luckily, a mammogram can detect small cancers long before any symptoms would appear. When breast cancer is found early, the chance of being cured is almost 100%. My breasts are small so I do not need to worry about breast cancer. Breast cancer does not discriminate based on the size of a woman's breast. It occurs in breasts of all shapes and sizes. I'm too old to have to worry about something like breast cancer OR I haven't gotten it yet, why should I worry now? Approximately three-fourths of all breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. The risk of getting breast cancer increases as you get older. I have too many other expenses; I can't afford it right now. Financial assistance to cover the cost of a mammogram is available for women who have no insurance coverage or can not meet a high insurance deductible due to financial hardship. For further information about available assistance, please contact the Community Cancer Center at (309) 451-8500. If I do have breast cancer, I would rather just not know OR I have too many other things to worry about, I don't need to worry about cancer, too. When a breast cancer is found early, you have the best chance for a full recovery. If you do find a problem and take care of it, you will avoid much more worry in the future. |
||