The Importance of Breast Awareness: Even with Regular screenings
ROANOKE, Va. – One in eight women is diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. For Roanoke resident, Angela Firebaugh, becoming part of that statistic was unexpected, especially after 15 years of clear mammograms.
“I felt something that didn’t feel quite right,” said Firebaugh, recalling the shower self-check that led to her diagnosis in July 2024. Despite years of regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle, she was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that can be notably challenging to detect.
“When they where talking to me about it at the ultrasound, the ultrasound that showed something was wrong, the radiation doctor said, ‘yes, this one is harder to find as of the way it grows and is frequently enough undetectable on those 3D mammograms,'” said Firebaugh.
Firebaugh’s case highlights the critical importance of breast awareness and self-exams, even when regular screenings are performed.
“I was really surprised and kind of mad as I had 15 negative mammograms, and I had dense breasts,” Firebaugh explained. Dense breast tissue can make it harder to detect cancer on mammograms,increasing the need for supplemental screening and vigilant self-awareness.
Why self-Exams Matter
While mammograms are a vital tool, they aren’t foolproof. Invasive lobular carcinoma, the type of cancer Firebaugh has, often presents differently then other types. It tends to grow in a scattered pattern, making it harder to spot on imaging. Self-exams allow women to become familiar with thier own breasts and notice any changes, even subtle ones.
How to Perform a Breast self-Exam
The American Cancer Society recommends these steps for a breast self-exam:
- In the Shower: Use the pads of your fingers to check the entire breast and armpit area for lumps or thickening.
- In front of a Mirror: visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides,then raised overhead. Look for changes in size, shape, or skin texture.
- Lying Down: Place a pillow under your shoulder and use the pads of your fingers to check each breast, moving in a circular pattern.
Beyond Self-Exams: Additional screening Options
For women with dense breasts,or those at higher risk for breast cancer,doctors may recommend additional screening methods,such as:
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue.
- MRI: Provides detailed images of the breast and can detect cancers that may not be visible on mammograms.
Firebaugh is now undergoing treatment and encourages other women to be proactive about their breast health.”don’t just rely on mammograms.Know your body,and if something feels off,get it checked out,” she urges.
Key Takeaways
- Regular mammograms are importent,but not always sufficient for detecting all types of breast cancer.
- Breast self-exams are a valuable tool for early detection, allowing you to become familiar with your breasts and notice any changes.
- Dense breast tissue can make it harder to detect cancer on mammograms, so discuss additional screening options with your doctor.
- If you notice any changes in your breasts, don’t hesitate to see a healthcare professional.
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