True or False: An Annual Physical Is Enough to Detect Breast Cancer

Written by Branda Polk

According to both the National Cancer Institute (www.cancer.gov) and the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org), an estimated 194,280 new cases of breast cancer will be discovered this year. Of these new cases, it is estimated that over 40,000 will die from this disease. Breast cancer does not discriminate based on age, race, gender, economic status, or religious preference. These statistics should not place a spirit of fear in our hearts, but a spirit of motivation to do all we can to prevent and detect problems as early as possible. Now is the time to actively pursue a healthy, active future. You are never too young or too old to begin. 

 

True or false: An annual physical with your doctor is enough to detect breast cancer. FALSE. Breast cancer signs and symptoms, including but not limited to breast tenderness, lumps, change in breast shape, and drainage, can occur at any time. Proper care for our bodies requires self-awareness and a partnership with medical professionals.

I have met and become well acquainted with several breast cancer survivors. Their stories of trust in God, perseverance through treatment, and gratitude for the support of family, friends, their church and their community have blessed me. I asked them to share the best advice they could give others regarding breast cancer and its early detection. The replies were unanimous and backed by the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institutes, and cancer centers nationwide.

Step 1: Perform monthly self examinations. Beginning as a young woman (as early as 16), develop a monthly routine of performing breast self-exams. Learn to correctly perform these quick exams from your doctor at your yearly physical. If necessary, ask for a diagramed brochure or an article to take as a reminder of the procedure until you are comfortable with it. Schedule your self-exam at a time each month that you will easily remember. Consider using the date of your birthday each month to help you remember. (Example: if your birthday is on March 18th, the 18th of each month you would perform your exam). The first or last day of each month would be another good time. But, most importantly, just do it. Most suspicious lumps or causes for concern are discovered by women during their monthly self-exam. If you notice changes in your breast during your monthly self-exam, contact your physician immediately. Do not wait until your next appointment.

Step 2: Schedule an annual physical with your physician. A doctor may be able to detect problems you might miss. At this appointment, review your overall health and discuss any problems that concern you. If someone in your family on your mother’s or father’s side is diagnosed with breast cancer, mention it to your doctor. Breast cancer has a strong genetic connection that your doctor may want to pursue as another form of protection and early detection method. 

Step 3: Have an annual mammography if you are over 40 years old or in a high risk category. Mammograms are radiological, diagnostic tests that can detect deep tissue cysts, and lumps that the self-examination or your physician may miss. Mammograms are necessary no matter breast size. Annual testing provides medical professionals with images that can track changes in the tissue. If something suspicious is detected on the mammogram, your doctor may request follow-up tests such as an ultrasound or MRI.

As one strong breast cancer survivor told me, “This is a three-step process where all the steps are equally important.” Her breast cancer was discovered during her self-examination, three months after her annual mammography and physician’s exam. “This is not a disease to take lightly.”

While some women are at a higher risk for breast cancer, the fact is, all women are at risk and must take responsibility for their own health. “Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? ...Therefore glorify God in your body.” (I Corinthians 6:19-20, HCSB) We honor God with proper care of our bodies. Make a plan to practice the steps that will lead you toward health.

For more information about breast cancer risks, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, contact the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER or on the web go to www.cancer.gov, www.cancer.org, www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-cancer, or www.webmd.com/breast-cancer.

Branda Polk, B.S. Exercise Science, is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, conference speaker and health writer in Lebanon, Tennessee. Sign up for Branda's newsletter, Wellness Connection, to receive encouragement and coaching in the areas of nutrition, exercise, and stress relief. Follow Branda on Twitter.

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