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For Immediate Release: |
CONTACT: |
Holly Anderson |
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August 28, 2001 |
(202) 835-3323, ext. 114 media@nclnet.org |
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NCL Releases Free Guide to Help Women Demystify Mammograms
WASHINGTON,
DC-The
National Consumers League has released a guide about mammograms to help women
better understand this potentially lifesaving procedure. “Mammograms – A Consumer Guide to
Breast Cancer Detection,” answers common questions, offers tips on self-exams,
details advancements in mammography, explains the benefits of the procedure, and
provides resources for more information.
“Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women ages
40-45,” NCL President Linda Golodner said. “Studies show the earlier breast
cancer is discovered, the greater chance a woman has of survival and full
recovery. That's why it's so important for women to regularly have
mammograms.”
Consumer
Guide Highlights
Mammography
Tips:
Do not wear deodorant. Some of the
ingredients used in deodorant can be misinterpreted in the images.
Wear a two-piece outfit. Patients will
need to undress from the waist-up.
Schedule the mammogram shortly after the
end of your period. Many women experience discomfort in the week prior to
their period, so having their breasts compressed could increase that
discomfort.
If you do not hear from your healthcare
provider within 10 days of the exam, call to confirm the status of the exam.
Descriptions
of Screening Methods:
§ Self-exams: A breast self-exam is important for observing and examining your breasts for any changes in their normal texture and appearance.
§ Clinical Exams: Your healthcare provider will conduct a clinical breast exam to check for changes or abnormalities in your breasts.
§
Mammography: Conventional
mammography takes an X-ray image of the breast tissue. The image is
developed into printed images that allow the radiologist to examine for any
abnormalities. Digital
mammography uses X-rays to create an image of the breast on a computer screen.
In a matter of seconds, the image is analyzed from the computer picture and
stored as a reference for future mammograms.
Breast
Cancer Risk Factors:
o Gender: Breast cancer is about 100 times more common in women than men.
o Age: A woman’s risk for breast cancer increases with age.
o Prior history of breast cancer.
o Family history: Women with a close blood relative who has had breast cancer are more susceptible to the disease.
o Race: White women are the most likely to develop breast cancer of any racial group; however, the mortality rate is higher among African-American women.
o Early menstruation: Before age 12.
o
Late menopause: After age 55.
The National
Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer
organization. Our mission is to identify, protect, represent, and advance the
economic and social interests of consumers and workers. NCL is a private,
nonprofit membership organization.
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