Five reasons to get a mammogram

We are in our fourth week of Sanford Lab’s Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. 

Through employee and community generosity, we’ve raised over $700 for the Lead/Deadwood Foundation for Health’s “pink bubble” fund, dedicated to alleviating costs for breast cancer patients that aren’t addressed by medical insurance. These include transportation to and from treatments, travel and lodging for the patient and their families and lymphedema compression sleeves. 

With one week of our campaign remaining, our Environment, Safety and Health team would like to  encourage readers to take this knowledge with them beyond this month, and make their health a priority, even when breast cancer isn't in the spotlight. This includes continuing to learn about this form of cancer, supporting organizations and research initiatives and supporting those battling the disease. 

Part of keeping breast cancer awareness a priority is encouraging women to get mammograms regularly. 

Here are 5 great reasons to schedule your mammogram today from Alexandria Radiology:

1. It could save your life.
A mammogram, the most trusted breast cancer screening tool, helps physicians to diagnose breast cancer in the earliest and most treatable stages. When breast cancer is caught and treated early, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%.

2. Breast cancer can’t always be felt.
Breast cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, mammograms can detect tumors that are too small to be felt from outside the breast.

3. It’s not as uncomfortable as you think it will be.
Compressing the breasts during a mammogram is necessary to get a better view of as much breast tissue as possible. Discomfort can be minimized by getting your mammogram during the first two weeks after your period, when your breasts are less tender. You could also take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever about an hour before your exam.

4. It only takes about 30 minutes.
Your health is important. Don’t let your busy schedule keep you from scheduling important screening exams. Your annual mammogram at Association of Alexandria Radiologists only takes about 30 minutes.

5. You had a mammogram last year.
You should receive a mammogram every year. Even if you’ve received normal mammograms in the past, it’s important to get a new mammogram each year. Prior mammogram images are very helpful in identifying specific changes over time, and understanding each woman’s unique anatomy.

To support breast cancer patients in the Lead/Deadwood area, follow the link and donate to Sanford Lab's fundraiser for Foundation for Health: https://form.jotform.com/82844853193971

The Foundation for Health has been providing opportunities to the community with health, safety and personal needs for more than 32 years. The Foundation also runs the “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” campaign during the Days of ’76 Rodeo as a way to increase support for breast cancer patients in the area. To learn more about Foundation for Health, visit their website.