Mammograms Save lives.

We recently shared with you the benefits of digital mammography and as we continue to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness month for a few more weeks, Mercy Health would like to take a moment to remind you the importance that mammography plays in saving lives. It is easy for women to get caught up in their everyday lives and taking care of the family that neglect their own well being. Throughout October, women are reminded of the importance of taking care of oneself, especially their breast health, and encouraged to remind the women in their lives as well of the importance of early detection.

Detecting breast cancer early greatly increases a woman’s chances of survival. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. We are fortunate to have seen the prognosis for those diagnosed with Breast Cancer increase over the last several years; meaning more women are surviving than ever before.

Early screening is the key factor in helping to detect breast cancer before it begins to cause symptoms or is considered a late stage diagnosis. Doctors estimate that early detection saves thousands of lives each year, and that many more lives could be saved if women took advantage of early screening for breast cancer. Breast health begins at home with the following steps for early detection: Three steps for early detection of breast cancer: 1. Monthly breast self-exam – women should know how their breasts normally feel and report any changes promptly to their doctor. 2. Schedule a clinical breast exam – women younger than 40 should have their breasts examined by a medical professional about every three years and annually after age 40. 3. Annual mammogram – women should obtain a mammogram every year starting at age 40. Nearly a decade ago, Mercy Health brought 3D mammography to Lorain County, allowing a mammography to not only be more comfortable and shorter, but also more accurate, yielding results in minutes, rather than days. Don’t wait, schedule your appointment today and remind those women who may be the Center of your Universe, to schedule their exam as well.