October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Where to Schedule a Mammogram in Southern IN & Western KY
October is finally here! It's a month dedicated to Halloween, trick-or-treating, and scary movies. It is also the month that gets us thinking about gearing up for the rest of the holiday season that is to follow. Fall breaks with the kiddos are soon to be taking place, finding the perfect Halloween costume, and buying candy for the neighborhood kids. It is a busy time of the year for many of us, and as a mom myself, our focus is almost entirely on our children's and our family's needs. But it's a very pivotal month for women to take care of themselves as well. I'm here to help, yearly mammograms are critical in the early detection of breast cancer. I've taken all the guesswork out of it for you by finding many local health care locations for your mammogram.
Know your risk
A couple of the greatest risk factors of breast cancer are being a woman and aging. Knowing your family history can be lifesaving, Set up a consultation with your primary care provider today to review your family medical history, and how that could impact the future of your health. Your doctor and you can come up with a personalized plan of action for screening, early detection, and knowing what your elevated risk factors for the disease are. Discover ways to help monitor and key information on the signs of any related health issues. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, according to the Susan G. Koman Facebook page, which is approximately one person every 2 minutes in the U.S. Be proactive and seek preventative care today by scheduling your mammogram.
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Smashing Pumpkins....well I mean melons
What is a mammogram? What does it consist of and what can I expect at a mammogram appointment? A mammogram is a radiological screening exam for breast cancer. It is normally performed in a diagnostic imaging clinic or an outpatient hospital setting. The screening only takes around 30 minutes to complete, so it is something we can all easily make room for in our hectic day-to-day life.
The screening compresses the breasts to spread the tissue out to help detect any potential anomalies. While this isn't the most comfortable experience, it is typically not painful and is worth the peace of mind knowing you are taking a very proactive approach to your health. An x-ray machine will take black and white images of the tissue, and results can take up to two weeks to come in. The suggested age for women to start yearly mammograms' is at age 40 and doing so can lead to early detection and greater survival rates.
Self- Evaluation
Monthly at-home self-checks can also help you know what your normal tissue feels like, and that will help you spot any abnormalities should they occur. Some signs to be on the lookout for include; any changes to the size/shape of the breast, pain or discomfort, or any lumps or knots that have formed in the breast or underarm. Always consult with your physician if you notice any of these especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
Where to go for screenings in the Tri-State
Consult with your primary care provider to schedule your exam, or find a location near you for the screening and scheduling.
Owensboro, KY
Contact the cancer screening team at Owensboro Health by calling 270-417-7641
Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging 270-926-8187
Henderson, KY
Deaconess Hospital 270-827-7700 has an online scheduling option for mammograms.
Visit their website: deaconess.com/Services/Breast-Services
Evansville, IN
Deaconess Midtown Hospital 812-450-5250
Ascension St. Vincent Evansville - Breast Center Mammography 812-485-4437
Visit their website here: https://healthcare.ascension.org
Hartford, KY
Ohio County Hospital 270-298-7411 ask to speak with radiology to have a mammogram scheduled
Bowling Green, KY
Western Kentucky Diagnostic Imaging 270-780-2720
Making Strides against breast cancer
On October the 15th the American Cancer Society is holding a Strides Against Breast Cancer Event at Titans Stadium in Nashville, Tn. For more information on this event and how to get involved please visit their website and social media.
You are not alone
I know, no one ever wants to think of the "C" word, it is life-altering and terrifying. Early detection is of utmost importance when it comes to survival odds, and breast cancer certainty is survivable when yearly screenings are a part of our schedule. You don't have to go through any of this alone, rally a support group even if it's just one person. They can help keep you both motivated and accountable for this form of self-care. Whether that support comes in the form of friends, family, or even co-workers, you'll never have to feel alone at any step of this journey. I wish health and happiness for all as we enter into this upcoming holiday season, and I hope this article has helped ease any anxiety about breast screenings. You are worth it, take care of yourself ladies!
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