Essential Tips for Breast Cancer Awareness from Saint Anthony Hospital
Important Insights From Saint Anthony Hospital for Breast Cancer Awareness
The Community Hospital Offers Screenings, Mammograms, and Breast MRIs.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is crucial for spreading knowledge about proactive health measures. Saint Anthony Hospital, renowned for its patient safety, strives to inform the community about essential steps for maintaining breast health and what to anticipate following a breast cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Sam Guirguis, the Department Chair of Radiology, alongside Dr. Siddiq Hasan, Chair of the Department of Surgery, shares key insights:
Understanding Your Risk for Breast Cancer
It's pivotal for women to assess their risk for breast cancer, especially by the age of 30. Factors that can impact one's risk include family history and genetic predisposition. Based on this assessment—whether low, intermediate, or high risk—a personalized action plan can be developed with your healthcare provider.
What You Should Do Regularly
Awareness of your own breast health is essential. Here are some recommendations:
- Conduct monthly self-breast exams to familiarize yourself with the normal state of your breasts.
- Any noticeable changes, such as lumps, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling, should prompt a consultation with your doctor.
- Women aged 40 and over should schedule annual mammograms, while those identified as high-risk may need both mammogram and breast MRI screenings every six months.
Post-Diagnosis: Next Steps
If you receive a positive diagnosis, a specialist will guide you through the treatment options available. Factors such as age, tumor size, and lymph node involvement will heavily influence your treatment plan, which may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Planning Your Treatment
Each case is unique, and it’s crucial to develop a tailored treatment approach. For instance, if surgery is chosen to save the breast, it may necessitate subsequent chemotherapy.
Key Considerations for Early Detection
Understanding your family history is vital. Women should proactively schedule mammograms, ideally 10 years prior to when a close relative was diagnosed with breast cancer, provided they are at least 30 years old.
- For example, if a mother was diagnosed at 45, her daughter should schedule a mammogram by age 35.
Additionally, many insurance plans cover breast screenings with no co-pays or out-of-pocket expenses, making it easier to stay on top of your health.
Recovery and Support
Chemotherapy typically lasts three to six months, while recovery from surgery generally takes about two weeks. Tailored support is crucial throughout this journey.
About Saint Anthony Hospital
Saint Anthony Hospital, founded in 1898, serves as an essential healthcare provider for over 450,000 residents in the community. It offers comprehensive health services, including screenings and wellness programs, focusing on bilingual education to promote health awareness.
For women seeking breast MRIs, screenings, and surgical options, Saint Anthony Hospital is dedicated to supporting their health needs. To schedule an appointment, call 773-484-4030.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Saint Anthony Hospital offer for breast health?
Saint Anthony Hospital provides screenings, mammograms, and breast MRIs, as well as surgical options for breast health.
At what age should I start breast cancer screenings?
Women should begin breast cancer screenings by age 30, with additional follow-ups depending on personal and family risk factors.
What symptoms should I look for during self-breast exams?
Look for any lumps, hard spots, nipple discharge, inversions, or skin dimpling; changes should be reported to your healthcare provider.
How often should I have a mammogram?
Women over 40 should have annual mammograms, while high-risk individuals may require them every six months alongside breast MRI screenings.
Is there any cost for breast cancer screenings?
Most insurance plans cover breast screenings without co-pays or deductibles, enabling easier access to such vital health services.
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