Right Age to Get Mammogram Test and Ways to Boost Breast Health

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide and is one of the leading causes of death in women. Although treatment approaches for breast cancer continue to evolve, early detection by screening mammography has dramatically decreased cancer-related mortality and improved patient survival rates. Regular screening mammography starting at age 40 years is pivotal that reduces breast cancer mortality in average-risk women. Also, commonly, a woman finds out about breast cancer symptoms (such as breast lump) while performing routine tasks like dressing or taking a shower, highlighting the importance of self-breast examination. Women should be aware of the typical appearance and feel of their breasts and promptly notify a healthcare professional of any changes. Routine physical examinations of the breasts by a medical expert (clinical breast exams) and breast cancer screening through mammograms are necessary. Let’s understand in detail about mammogram test and how to boost breast health.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a type of x-rays imaging of the breast. Regular mammogram screenings can assist in find breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most likely to be effective. Breast cancers found during screening exams are typically smaller and less likely to have extend beyond the breast. Hence, early detection means finding and diagnosing a disease earlier than if you’d waited for symptoms to start.

Mammograms are thought to be a helpful diagnostic for early detection of breast cancer, even before symptoms appear, referred to as a screening mammography. In a few cases, they can help to diagnose possible signs of breast cancer, up to three years before they can be felt or detected. A medical practitioner will recommend a diagnostic mammography if you experience any new symptoms, such as pain, nipple discharge, changes in breast skin, or a lump. A diagnostic mammogram usually involves taking more detailed x-ray pictures of the breast from different angles to check the suspicious area more closely.

 

 

Who All Should Undergo a Mammogram & Right Age to Get It?

 

Many organisations, including the American College of Obstetricians and the American College of Radiology, advise all women with an average risk of breast cancer to get a screening mammography every year beginning at age 40.

 

• Each woman should know the advantages, restrictions, and potential risks of breast cancer screening.
• Mammograms should be the first choice for women between the ages of 40 and 44 who want to begin yearly breast cancer screening.
• Women between the ages of 45 and 54 should have a mammogram every year.
• Women aged 55 and older can choose to have mammograms every two years, or continue with yearly screenings.
• If a woman is in good health and expected to live at least 10 more years, she should continue having regular screening mammograms.
  
  
  

 What are the Ways to Boost Breast Health?

Preventive care is essential to preserve good breast health and reduce the risk of breast cancer. Here are some at-home strategies for women to take care of their breasts and preserve general health, as follows:

 

1)      Eat healthy: Having a daily nutritious food on your plate is both a delightful and nutritious defense against various cancers, including breast cancer. This entails directing your daily menu in the direction of:

·         Eat the rainbow food: Rich in natural antioxidants and phytochemicals, vibrantly coloured fruits and vegetables may lower your risk of cancer. Eat at least three different coloured fruits and vegetables each day for good health.

·         Fatty acids with omega-3 content: Research says that women who consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are less likely to develop breast cancer. Therefore, try to eat more nuts like walnuts and hazelnuts; seeds like flaxseed, and chia seeds, as well as fish like salmon, mackerel, and herring.

·         Eating grains: Consuming whole-grain foods at least seven times a week, like oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa or whole-wheat bread is associated with reduced breast cancer risk.

2)      Exercise: Do you know that by increasing your fitness level, you can stay ahead of breast cancer? Women who are physically active have a 25% lower risk of breast cancer than those who are more sedentary, according to research. A daily act of walking or moderate exercise at least four times a week not only assists you in maintaining a healthy weight and lowering blood sugar but also enhances your immune system's performance and keeps a check on estrogen levels.

3)      Breast massage: Massaging the breasts on a regular basis keeps the tissues robust and healthy. The lymph nodes that surround the breasts are in charge of transporting lymph, or fluid, which aids in the body's defence against illness. To keep this fluid flowing, the body's lymphatic system uses movement. The lymph is pushed in the proper direction by massaging the breasts. In addition to being an excellent stress reliever, breast massage can help people develop a good body image.

4)      Limit alcohol intake:  According to the research, drinking alcohol at any level raises your risk for breast cancer.

·         5% for those who are light drinkers and don't consume more than one drink a day.

·         32% for those who consume three to four glasses of alcohol daily.

·         46% higher risk for those who consume more than four alcoholic drinks each day.

Additionally, researchers discovered that drinking alcohol after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis raises the chance of a recurrence. This is especially true if you're at an unhealthy weight or as you age.

5)      Abstain from smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of lung cancer but also raises your chance of breast cancer, especially if you begin smoking while still in school. Your long-term chances can be improved if you have the guts to quit smoking. Consult a medical professional about beginning a smoking cessation program.

6)      Recognize your family's history: Breast cancer risk is significantly influenced by genetics. A woman's risk of developing breast cancer may occasionally be increased if there is a history of breast or ovarian cancer on either her mother's or father's family side. Genes known as BRCA1 and BRCA2 may influence an individual's risk of breast cancer. To find out if you have the "Breast Cancer gene" (BRCA) mutation, think about getting genetic testing done.

 

Hence, the breast cancer risk can be significantly reduced by leading a healthy lifestyle that includes doing frequent exercise, having a diet rich in nutrients, abstaining from smoking and drinking, and being aware of your family history. To learn more about ways to take care of your breasts, connect with your healthcare professionals and get suggested screenings done. Consult your gynecologist who can ask for specific tests to differentiate between a cancerous and a noncancerous mass.

If you have any questions related to breast cancer and mammogram, you can check with our oncologists at Ask a doctor, 24x7.