Awareness, early detection key in fighting breast cancer

Awareness, early

detection key in fighting breast cancer

Breast Cancer is the leading

contributor to cancer deaths in women age 15-54, although 48 percent of

new breast cancer cases and 56 percent of breast cancer deaths occur in

women age 65 and over.

As the large number of women

in the "baby boom" generation age, the number of breast cancer

cases and deaths will increase substantially unless age-specific incidence

and mortality rates decline.

Since we don't yet know what

causes breast cancer or how to prevent it, the best protection is to detect

it as early as possible and treat it promptly. Breast cancer can be cured,

if found early.

The American Cancer Society

and some of the nations leading health organizations recommend this 3-step

early detection program:

Have a regular mammogram.

Annual mammograms should begin at age 40. Medicare covers mammograms according

to your age and your risk.

See your doctor, nurse or

health care provider for regular breast exams. This means at least

every three years from age 20-39. and every year beginning at age 40.

Practice monthly breast

self-exams. Ask your health care provider to teach you the proper

way to do a thorough breast self exam.

A program called "Breast

Test and More" is available through the Fayette County Health Department.

It provides free mammograms for women ages 40-64 if they are financially

eligible.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness

month, so don't delay. Call your health de partment at 770-461-1178,

ext. 5416 to check your eligibility