The Mammo Minute: Mammogram Myth Busted: Why You Need One BEFORE You Feel a Lump!

Think you don’t need a mammogram because you don’t feel a lump? Think again! In this episode of the Mammo Minute, Dr. Arthy Saravanan, breast imaging radiologist at ARA Diagnostic Imaging, busts this common breast cancer screening myth and explains why yearly mammograms starting at age 40 are critical for early detection.

Hello, and welcome to the “Mammo Minute.”

I’m Dr. Arthy Saravanan, and I’m a breast imaging radiologist at ARA Diagnostic Imaging.

Today, let’s talk about a myth about breast cancer and mammography.

I’ve heard people say that if they don’t feel a lump in their breast, they don’t need a mammogram.

In fact, when you wait until you can feel a lump or see other breast symptoms, you may have a more advanced cancer!

The American Cancer Society reports that early stage breast cancer has a five year survival rate of 99%.

Late stage breast cancer has a survival rate of 27%.

That’s why we emphasize early detection and the need for a yearly screening mammogram starting at the age of 40.

In fact, a screening mammogram can detect cancer up to three years before it can be felt by the patient.

All that being said, if you do find a lump in your breast or armpit area, please see your healthcare provider immediately.

Most often, lumps that arise quickly are due to hormonal changes in your body or swollen lymph nodes that are part of your normal cycle.

Generally, a benign lump will feel soft and mobile. A lump that is hard, like your knuckle, is more likely to be cancerous.

But don’t guess. You need to see a medical professional to be sure.

For more information on benign breast changes, visit this link: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/non-cancerous-breast-conditions.html

Thanks for watching this Mammo Minute.

We have tons of topics that can answer so many of your breast health related questions.

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