Motivating women to participate in breast cancer detection

Article Abstract:

Many women are reluctant to participate in early screening programs for breast cancer. Cancer is perceived by some as a hopeless condition, and others may fear disfigurement and the loss of control which is associated with cancer treatment. Some women believe that since they eat right and exercise, they will not get cancer. The most powerful tool for convincing women to participate in screening programs is education, which can dispel many popular myths. If breast cancer is detected early, either by a mammogram or physical examination, there is an excellent chance of successful treatment and a good chance of breast conserving surgery, rather than mastectomy. All women, particularly those over 50, are possible candidates for breast cancer, which cannot yet be prevented. A professional examination is necessary; there is no evidence that self-examination is successful in reducing mortality due to breast cancer, and the oft-heard myth that 80 percent of women find their own breast cancer is simply not true. The radiation hazard from a mammogram is not zero, but significant advances have been made such that the risk to the patient is negligible. Women should also be reminded that in many cases mammography is now covered by insurance and there is no cost to the patient. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Medical screening, Health screening, Self-examination, Medical, Self examination (Medical)

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Detecting early breast cancer: experience in a community hospital

Article Abstract:

Although it is widely recognized within the health-care community that mammography can identify breast cancer in its earliest and most readily treatable stages, the majority of American women have not had a mammogram. Only 15 percent comply with the recommendations of the American Cancer Society. Various medical centers report different percentages, but the overwhelming majority of breast cancers are not detected by mammography, and thus represent statistics which might have been improved upon. The active involvement of radiologists in developing a breast screening program in a community center resulted in a substantial reduction in the size of the breast cancers identified, and a two-thirds reduction in the number of patients who had lymph node involvement at the time of diagnosis. The availability of mammography is not sufficient in itself; radiologists must take responsibility for motivating and organizing physicians, surgeons, and patients. If they do, a substantial improvement in the treatment of breast cancer will likely be their reward. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Practice, Radiology

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