According to the National Cancer Institute breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. It affects millions of men and women each year. Which is why early detection is crucial. It is vital for improving your chances of successful treatment. As well as survival. In this blog, you will take a look at preventative care when it comes to breast cancer. Specifically, why regular screening and self-exams play a pivotal role in catching breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. 

Catching It Early

Early detection of breast cancer involves finding the disease before you have symptoms. This is done through routine screenings. These screenings are done by getting mammograms. In addition to doing self-exams. The sooner this cancer is detected, the better. Catching it early means less invasive treatment options. Along with having more options as well. If you catch this cancer early the treatment is less aggressive compared to others. You will also have higher chances of surviving. When compared to cancer that is found at a later stage. 

Mammograms

Mammograms are special X-ray exams. They can find abnormalities in your breast tissue. These abnormalities can show the presence of cancer. The following are other key reasons why they are essential. Along with when you should get them done:

• Early Detection: This X-ray can find breast changes that could be cancers years before your physical symptoms start.
• Lower Mortality Rate: According to the American College of Radiology, women who get their mammograms done regularly have a 47% lower risk of dying from breast cancer. 
• Treatment Options: Finding this cancer early means your treatment can start sooner. This often leads to less extensive surgery. As well as less reliance on chemotherapy.

The American Cancer Society recommends that if you have an average risk of breast cancer start yearly mammograms. You can start this between the ages of 40 and 44.

Self-Exams and Self-Awareness

Mammograms are vital. However, there is another way you can be preventative about your health. That is by doing self-exams. Breast self-exams (BSE) involve you regularly checking your breasts. When you do this you are checking for a few things. These things are lumps, changes in size or shape, and other unusual signs. This helps you with your breast self-awareness. As you age your breasts change. It's essential to understand what is normal for your breasts. The core of breast self-awareness is seeing the usual appearance and feel of your breasts. This helps you to detect any changes in your breasts. As well as take a proactive approach when it comes to your health.

Visit Clinicas

Early detection through regular screening and breast self-awareness is a powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer. If you are due for a screening now is the time to take action. Your health and peace of mind are worth it. Visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. today to take charge of your health. At Clinicas you will find a warm and supportive environment. One that is dedicated to your health and well-being. Make an appointment with your Primary Care or OB/GYN provider to take the first step of your preventative health journey.