Breast Cancer Awarness Month

With almost 290,000 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed this year, it is crucial that you are able to separate myths from facts about breast cancer prevention. Here at Dr. Ciaravino’s office, we want you to now the facts…

1. ALL WOMEN should do monthly self-breast exams. Having a false since of security is the worst mindset. Everyone is susceptible to getting breast cancer even if breast cancer does not run in your family.

2.Most women should start screening for breast cancer through mammograms at age 40. Recommendations may vary depending on the individuals’ risk factors. The dose of radiation that you are exposed to is minimal and risks are extremely low.

3. Women who have breast implants should partake in the same breast cancer screenings as those who don’t have implants.  A slight difference in screening techniques is used with patients who have implants so make sure the facility and radiologist performing your mammogram is familar with breast implants.

4. Breast pain is rarely a symptom of breast cancer. Pain is more likely due to hormones or cyclic tenderness due to the menstrual cycle.

Take the time to educate your mom, sister, or daughter about breast cancer. If each of us take preventative measures to prevent breast cancer less and less families will be affected.