2018 Think Pink

A GUIDE TO BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

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Determining breast cancer stage

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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hen receiving treatment for breast cancer, women will learn about cancer staging.

According to the nonprofit organization Breastcancer.org, determining the stage of the cancer helps patients and their doctors figure out the prognosis, develop a treatment plan and even decide if clinical trials are a valid option.

Typically expressed as a number on a scale of 0 through IV, breast cancer stage is determined after careful consideration of a host of factors. The staging system, sometimes referred to as the TNM system, is overseen by the American Joint Committee on Cancer and ensures that all instances of breast cancer are described in a uniform way.

This helps to compare treatment results and gives doctors and patients a better understanding of breast cancer and the ways to treat it.

Breastcancer.org notes that the TNM system was updated in 2018, but before then was based on three clinical characteristics: • T: the size of the tumor and whether or not it has grown into nearby tissue • N: whether the cancer is present in the lymph nodes • M: whether the cancer has metastasized, or spread to others parts of the body beyond the breast While each of those factors is still considered when determining breast cancer stage, starting in 2018, the AJCC added additional characteristics to its staging guidelines, which make staging more complex but also more accurate. • Tumor grade: This is a

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measurement of how much the cancer cells look like normal cells. • Estrogen- and progesteronereceptor status: This indicates if the cancer cells have receptors for the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

If cancer cells are deemed estrogenreceptor-positive, then they may receive signals from estrogen that promote their growth. Similarly, those deemed progesterone-receptor-positive may receive signals from progesterone that could promote their growth. Testing for hormone receptors, which roughly two out of three breast cancers are positive for, helps doctors determine if the cancer will respond to hormonal therapy or other treatments. Hormone-receptor-

positive cancers may be treatable with medications that reduce hormone production or block hormones from supporting the growth and function of cancer cells. • HER2 status: This helps doctors determine if the cancer cells are making too much of the HER2 protein. HER2 proteins are receptors on breast cells made by the HER2 gene. In about 25 percent of breast cancers, the HER2 gene makes too many copies of itself, and these extra genes ultimately make breast cells grow and divide in ways that are uncontrollable. HER2-positive breast cancers are more likely to spread and return than those that are HER2-negative.

• Oncotype DX score: The oncotype DX score helps doctors determine a woman’s risk of early-stage, estrogenreceptor positive breast cancer recurring and how likely she is to benefit from post-surgery chemotherapy. In addition, the score helps doctors figure out if a woman is at risk of ductal carcinoma in situ recurring and/or at risk for a new invasive cancer developing in the same breast. The score also helps doctors figure out if such women will benefit from radiation therapy or DCIS surgery.

Determining breast cancer stage is a complex process, but one that can help doctors develop the most effective course of treatment. More information is available at www.breastcancer.org.

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BYÂ SUSAN G. KOMEN EVANSVILLE TRI-STATE mammography, we can hope to find breast

O

ur mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

It is important for us at Susan G. Komen Evansville Tri-State to recognize the need in our community then strive to address these needs by providing breast health services and access to care for everyone.

Up to 75 percent of the funds raised in our Tri-State stay right here in our Tri-State.

We are providing real-time help for those in need now by providing funds for mammograms, diagnostic tests, surgery, treatment and out-of-pocket expenses for those uninsured and underinsured. We also are investing in the future to find the cures by contributing the remaining 25 percent to fund innovative and groundbreaking breast cancer research.

It is important for all of us to act and make sure the barriers to care are eliminated. One important step is to ensure easy access to breast health services are available by providing mobile mammography and transportation assistance when needed. By providing easier access to annual

Angela M. Dawson M.D., F.A.C.O.G

Andrea B. Moore M.D., F.A.C.O.G

Megan R. Burch APRN

cancers earlier when they can be treated with better outcomes and less mortality.

It is also important for all of us to donate. This year our affiliate is giving back more than $341,000 to 13 local institutions that will provide free mammograms, diagnostic tests, surgery, treatment and out-of-pocket expenses on our behalf.

These funds are made possible through our event participation, individual donations and corporate sponsorships. Our affiliate has given back more than $8.5 million to our Tri-State throughout the last 20 years.

Lastly, we must all get involved. In order to provide services to all in need, we must all do our part. One can help by volunteering at our Race for the Cure, Bowl for the Cure, Surviving with Style, hosting your own event or helping out in our office. If we all do our part, we can work together to fight breast cancer in our Tri-State. Our goal is to reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50 percent in the United States by the year 2026. Our vision is to have a world without breast cancer!

Together, we can be, More Than Pink.

Brende L. Lott APRN, CNM

Ann G. Watson APRN

2200 E Parrish Avenue, Bldg B Suite 201 270.926.3700

Darla M. Alvey APRN

Photo courtesy of Susan G. Komen Evansville Tri-State

If we all do our part, we can work together to fight breast cancer in our Tri-State. Our goal is to reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50 percent in the United States by the year 2026. Our vision is to have a world without breast cancer!

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Sunday, September 30, 2018 Messenger-Inquirer

The case for early breast cancer detection

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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eading breast cancer research organization and screening advocate Susan G. Komen says 1.7 million new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed across the globe in 2012. While breast cancer still affects millions of women (and a smaller number of men), greater knowledge of the disease and earlier detection has helped to increase the chances of sur vival for so many people.

Having an early detection plan enables a person to be proactive about their health, says The National Breast Cancer Foundation. The National Cancer Institute found that when breast cancer is detected in the

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION localized stage, the five-year sur vival hile the vast majority of breast rate is 98 percent. cancer diagnoses involve • Get a grasp of your normal. women, men are not immune to the Inspect your body frequently to get disease. According to the American an idea of what constitutes “normal” Cancer Society, the lifetime risk of for you. This way should something getting breast cancer is about one seem amiss, you can visit your doctor in 1,000 among men in the United to have it checked out. No one knows States. By comparison, the risk your body better than you, and you for women in the United States is can be your best health advocate. one in eight. While a man’s risk • Understand signs and symptoms for breast cancer is considerably of breast cancer. The most common lower than a woman’s, the ACS symptom of breast cancer is a new still estimates that roughly 480 lump or mass. Painless, hard and men will die from breast cancer in irregularly shaped masses are more 2018, when more than 2,500 new likely to be cancerous than others, cases of invasive breast cancer will but any mass detected should be be diagnosed in men. In addition, checked by a healthcare profesthe ACS notes that black men sional. Other possible signs of breast cancer include breast swelling, skin retraction. Sometimes swelling in the dimpling, nipple pain, discharge other than breast milk, thickening or lymph nodes under the arm can be felt redness of the breast skin or nipple before a lump in the breast is present.

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diagnosed with breast cancer tend to have a worse prognosis than white men. Though breast cancer may be a disease widely associated with women, men should not hesitate to report any discomfort to their physicians, as the National Cancer Institute notes that men are often diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than women. The ACS suggests that men may be less likely to report symptoms, thereby leading to delays in diagnosis. The more advanced the cancer is at the time of diagnosis, the lower the patient’s survival rate. Men are urged to report any discomfort or abnormalities in their chests to their physicians immediately.

• Establish a self-exam schedule.

People should perform a self-examination of their breasts at least once

a month. According to John Hopkins Medical Center, 40 percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump.

• Book an appointment for a clinical exam. Speak with your family practitioner or gynecologist about the best schedule for clinical breast exams based on your age and risk factors. During clinical exams your physician will check the texture of the breast tissue for any abnormalities and lumps. Doctors also can assess any suspicious areas, taking note of any abnormalities, including lumps.

• Determine a mammogram schedule. Women can work together with a healthcare provider to develop a mammogram schedule that takes their age and medical histor y into consideration. The American Cancer Society says MRI scans and other breast imaging procedures may be necessar y for women with dense breasts or those at a high risk for breast cancer because of strong family histor y or gene mutations. Many experts recommend an annual mammogram starting at age 40.

• Determine if genetic testing is right for you. Susan G. Komen says some inherited gene mutations increase breast cancer risk. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the best-known genes linked to breast cancer. Women who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation are at a greater risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer than those who do not have such mutations. Testing may be recommended for people at ver y high risk.

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Talk therapy can help patients heal emotionally

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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eceiving a cancer diagnosis can be a profound experience that often changes the course of people’s lives. Individuals react to cancer diagnoses in various ways, with some retreating into themselves and others sharing their stories to garner as much strength as they can muster.

A strong support system can help men and women navigate the ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments. While many people lean on friends and family members for support, therapists also can help patients as they battle cancer.

Licensed therapists can help treat many of the mental side effects that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.

Japanese researchers who reviewed the results of six studies that included 517 patients with incurable cancer and depression found that talk therapy was shown to help treat depression symptoms nearly as well as antidepressant medications.

Depression is not the only reason a cancer patient may want to speak

with a therapist. Cancer also can bring professional support can include: rise to many issues that may be better • trouble adjusting to the illness addressed in a private, judgment-free • feelings of social or familial zone. According to the American Cancer isolation Society, some additional reasons to seek • family conflicts

• concerns about quality of life • changes in perceptions of body image • feelings of grief • trouble communicating In addition to addressing these issues, which are commonly referred to as psychosocial problems, therapists can work with individuals and families in other areas. Therapists can help their patients find community resources where they can connect with others experiencing similar situations. And therapists can help patients learn about the various ways they can educate themselves about their disease. Some therapists may specialize in offering support, while others may focus on cognitivebehavioral therapy in relation to cancerinduced anxieties.

Cancer patients have many options when the time comes to choose a counselor. Ask your cancer team to provide references or use the American Psychosocial Oncology Society (www.apossociety.org) or Canadian Association of Psychological Oncology (www.capo.ca) as a resources.

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Schedule your screening mammogram online at www.deaconess.com/ScheduleNow.

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Potential side effects of breast cancer treatment

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ancer is a painful, potentially life-threatening disease. Though discomfort might be the first warning sign that compels people to visit their physicians on the road to receiving a cancer diagnosis, cancer treatments can produce a host of side effects, including pain, as well.

According to the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, breast cancer treatments can create both long-term side effects and late side effects. Long-term side effects are those that begin during treatment and continue after all treatments have stopped, while late side effects refers to symptoms that can appear weeks, months or even years after treatments have ended.

The list of potential side effects of breast cancer treatments is lengthy but may include the following conditions or issues.

FATIGUE

The nonprofit organization Breastcancer.org notes that fatigue is the most common side effect of breast cancer treatments, with some estimates suggesting it affects as many as 90 percent of all patients. Some breast cancer patients may experience fatigue after treatment and find it’s worsening because they are eating less and not getting enough nutrients.

In such instances, the initial fatigue may make people too tired to cook, ultimately contributing to more fatigue when they are not eating or eating convenient yet potentially unhealthy foods. Cooking healthy foods in bulk when fatigue is not overwhelming and accepting others’ offers to cook is a great way for cancer patients to ensure their diets are helping them combat fatigue and not making fatigue worse.

LYMPHEDEMA

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine notes that, following breast cancer treatment, some patients may suffer from lymphedema, a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the tissues. Lymphedema most often occurs in the arms, but can contribute to swelling in other parts of the body as well. Why some people suffer from lymphedema after treatment and others don’t is a mystery, though surgeons at Johns Hopkins Breast Center have noticed a low occurrence of lymphedema in patients who have undergone sentinel node biopsies or axillary node dissection. Breast cancer patients are at risk

of lymphedema for the rest of their lives after treatment, and while there’s no way to prevent it, patients should avoid getting needle sticks or blood pressure tests in arms where lymph nodes were removed.

In addition, any injuries or cuts in arms where lymph nodes were removed should be treated with vigilance.

INFERTILITY

Many women will stop menstruating while undergoing chemotherapy or after chemo treatments, and that cessation is often temporary. These irregularities may be traced to hormonal therapies that make the ovaries stop producing eggs. However, in some

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instances, even premenopausal women may have trouble getting pregnant after hormonal therapy. Breastcancer.org notes that women whose periods do not return after treatment may still be fertile, but also notes that women who are close to menopause when beginning chemo may become permanently infertile. Women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer who are concerned about post-treatment infertility should speak with their physicians immediately about their prospects of getting pregnant after treatment, including fertility treatments and the potential safety risks of getting pregnant after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

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Shaw’s offers complete post-mastectomy care

BY JODI KEEN

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Shaw’s Prosthetics Plus Inc. has been a leading center for prosthetics in Owensboro. But some may not know about a particularly important service Shaw’s offers: post-mastectomy care.

Serving patients who have undergone mastectomies to treat or prevent cancer, Shaw’s offers care from recovery to cosmetic fittings, so that each patient can be attended to by the same shop through her entire post-operation journey.

“We like to focus on the medical side of post-mastectomy, but we also care a lot about the cosmetic side,” Leigh Anne Ball says. “We want to make it the easiest transition possible. Not all fitting stories are the same.”

Leigh Anne is a Certified Fitter of Mastectomy (CFm) credentialed through the American Board for Certification and one of the only certified fitters in the tri-state.

An Owensboro native, Leigh Anne started mastectomy fitting about eight years ago and underwent 500 hours of training before taking her certification exam. She then joined the committee that rewrote the certification test in 2014, which set new

guidelines for the standards of fitting.

Shaw’s emphasizes its family-oriented business nature, and that extends to its relationships with its post-mastectomy customers.

“We treat patients like family,” Leigh Anne says. “We build relationships with them.”

The process of post-mastectomy care is involved, but Leigh Anne and Shaw’s take care to break each step down to match their patients’ comfort levels. And that care starts on Day One. For immediate post-op care, Shaw’s sells camisoles, which are recommended at the doctor’s discretion and can provide a more comfortable recovery period for the patient.

“A camisole is used right after surgery,” Leigh Anne says. “Its pockets will hold cloth forms. They also have drain pouches, since women typically go home (from surgery) with drain tubes.”

A physician’s prescription is needed to get the ball rolling on the fitting process. Starting during recovery, Leigh Anne meets with patients to determine their needs. A range of post-mastectomy accessories such as breast forms, bras and

sleeves is available for patients to choose from. A breast form is made of silicone and similar to a breast implant but is placed outside the body. Post-mastectomy bras feature pockets that the breast forms slide into so that they don’t adhere to the skin.

Shaw’s offers partial breast forms and also custom breast forms using Radiant Impressions: A scanning tool is used to make a 3D image of the patient’s remaining breast and can match the breast’s form, tone and nipple color. This type of breast form does adhere to the skin. Shaw’s is also the only Juzo-certified retailer in Owensboro, and Leigh Anne can customize compression garments for patients who don’t fit traditional garments.

The initial consult goes over accessory options and insurance, and a second consult ensures that specially ordered products fit well. Leigh Anne stresses that they want patients to be completely comfortable with their forms and accessories.

Patients are then brought in for followup appointments every three months for the first year.

“Your body changes a lot, especially if you’re doing chemo,” Leigh Anne says, so it’s important to check the fit and comfort

of the patient’s breast form and bras.

Working with Shaw’s has an added benefit: Because Leigh Anne is also the office manager, she is a one-stop shop for information on post-mastectomy care insurance, policy and billing.

Most insurance plans cover mastectomy prothesis as treatment, Leigh Anne says, but “medical policy changes almost daily. I have to know what (the insurance companies) have to have and when.”

Leigh Anne says, oftentimes, patients’ biggest fears are about the way they will look physically and the effect their postmastectomy appearance will have on their relationships. While patients may wish to appear fuller again, the emotional toll of losing their breasts can make replacing them especially daunting. So because the procedure can be delicate, Leigh Anne keeps an eye on sensitivity when working with patients.

“I try to put myself in that situation,” she says. “There are so many other things pressing at that time, that I just want my patients to know, ‘You just focus on getting better and healing, and let me worry about your outside appearance.’ I came make you look full, but I can’t make you feel it.”

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What to expect before and after a mastectomy

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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astectomy is a treatment for women diagnosed with breast cancer or those who are genetically predisposed to cancer.

The removal of one or both breasts, mastectomy surgery may involve removing just the breast tissue or, in some cases, the lymph nodes as well.

Data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality says their analysis points to a 36 percent increase of both single and double mastectomies between the period of 2005 and 2013, the most recent year for data.

Women on the precipice of mastectomy surgery will naturally have many questions concerning the procedure and projected recovery. The process of recovering is different for everyone, and not all mastectomies are the same.

The following is a general idea of what patients can expect before and after mastectomy surgery.

BEFORE SURGERY

A mastectomy is performed under general anesthesia, advises the nonprofit group Susan G. Komen. Therefore, patients should expect to undergo routine physical exams and may require a surgical pre-clearance from a doctor and the surgical hospital or center. Blood tests and an EKG may be ordered as well.

Prior to surgery, patients can begin side effect. It is helpful to be prepared making plans for childcare, meal before such items are needed. preparation, shopping, work requirements, and more. As mastectomy is AFTER SURGERY an invasive procedure, patients may Mastectomy surgeries typically last experience pain and fatigue after surbetween two and three hours. Some gery. Having various plans in play well may last longer if reconstruction is before the surgery date can relieve performed at the same time. Patients some stress and help will be admitted to patients focus on their Women on the precipice of a hospital stay for a recoveries. day or two and moved Purchase comfort- mastectomy surgery will to a recovery room, able clothing that will naturally have many and will need to be be loose around the questions concerning the driven home upon arms and chest. Zipdischarge. procedure and projected up tops or those with Expect to be recovery. The process of front buttons afford bandaged and posrecovering is different for easy access. Some sibly have a surgical everyone, and not all women also opt to drain at the wound get fitted for post-op mastectomies are the same. site. The nonprofit garments, including a resource Breastcanlymphedema sleeve. Lymphedema is a cer.org says the drain usually remains swelling of the area, and it is a common in place one to two weeks after sur-

gery. Fluid will have to be emptied from the detachable drain bulb a few times per day. Sutures that are dissolvable will not require removal.

Patients should follow the recovery plans outlined by their doctors. Rest is most important during this time, so do not overdo exercise or other activities, although some movements to relieve shoulder stiffness may be advised.

Pain, numbness, itching, and myriad other symptoms may occur. Take pain medications only as needed and directed. Weakness is expected in the arms and shoulders. Ask for help lifting, moving or picking up items.

Emotional side effects can be just as profound as physical ones. Fear of the cancer, body image issues and a sense of loss can occur. Having a strong support team can help, as can speaking with a professional counselor.

It can take several weeks to start

feeling like oneself again after mastectomy surgery. Women should not hold themselves up to anyone else’s standards and be patient and hopeful because this challenging time is temporary. Learn more at Breastcancer.org.

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Post-mastectomy fulfillment a priority at CherriCare

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BY CHERRICARE

etting a breast cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering moment. Being presented with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery options can be overwhelming. At CherriCare, we want our customers to know as much information as possible about their diagnosis and possible post-mastectomy needs. We want to ease every woman’s mind and answer as many questions as possible. That’s why we suggest that any woman who is scheduled to have any mastectomy or lumpectomy procedure also schedule an appointment with us and well before your surgery date, so we can show you exactly what we offer to help you recover and feel your best through the entire process.

Cherri Lolley, the owner and founder, is a Certified Mastectomy Fitter and Registered Nurse. We also have two other trained fitters on staff. We carry a large supply of bras and prosthesis from the best brands, including ABC, Almost U, Nearly Me, TruLife and Classique.

During your appointment, we will personally fit you and find what items work just for you. Our number one goal is your comfort, but we also make sure you look as good as you feel.

Below are a few facts to know before (and after) coming in for a fitting: • The amount of post-mastectomy bras and breast prosthesis covered by insurance depends on carrier

and policy. Medicare allows one silicone breast form every two years, two silicone breast forms for bilateral mastectomies. Standard silicone is the closest in texture and feel to a natural breast. It also holds its shape in water. Medicare allows one foam breast form every six months, two for bilateral. Foam breast forms are used when silicone are too heavy for a woman. Breast form prostheses are considered a medical device and are regulated by the FDA. All of our silicone breast forms are medical-grade silicone and are a great alternative option to reconstructive surgery.

The average functional life of a mastectomy bra is three to six months, depending on how often it is worn and the care that it receives. An appropriate mastectomy bra and breast prosthesis fitting is not merely for cosmetic reasons. When a breast (or both) is removed, the body is no longer in balance and will compensate with slight curving of the spine and “shoulder drop.”

Both conditions can lead to chronic lower back pain.

Wearing an incorrect-size bra that does not fit properly or forces the breast form into a different shape can cause the form to crease or to be distorted. Even a fivepound weight gain or loss can change your bra size.

Mastectomy bras wear out and stretch, losing their elasticity quicker than other bras. A worn-out bra can cause your breast form to pull away from your chest wall, causing a heavy feeling and back strain.

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Post-breast cancer exercise advice

BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

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urger y is often part of treating breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, doctors may recommend women undergo breast biopsies, lymph node biopsies or removals, lumpectomies, mastectomies, or breast reconstructions as part of their treatments.

Surgery is often an effective way to treat breast cancer, but it does come with some side effects. The ACS notes that breast cancer surgery can affect how well women move their shoulders and arms, as pain and stiffness can weaken both areas. In addition, women’s ability to take deep breaths may be compromised after surgery, and they may have difficulty performing normal everyday activities like dressing, bathing and brushing their hair.

Exercise may seem impossible after breast cancer surgery, but the ACS recommends women exercise after surgery to get their arms and shoulders moving again. The ACS notes that exercise can be especially important to women who under went radiation therapy after surger y, as radiation can affect movement in the arm and shoulder long after treatment has ended. Regular exercise after radiation treatment can help women maintain mobility in their arms and shoulders.

Exercising after breast cancer surger y can restore movement, but it’s important that women take into account the following pointers, courtesy of the ACS, before beginning a regimen.

• Speak with your physician. Discuss exercise with your physician after undergoing surger y. Doctors may prescribe physical or occupational therapy, and some may even refer patients to cancer exercise specialists. Simply jumping back into your pre-surger y exercise routine can be dangerous, so bring up exercise immediately after surger y or during a followup visit.

• Expect some tightness. Doctors may suggest women begin exercising a week or more after undergoing breast cancer surgery. It’s normal to feel some tightness in the chest and

armpit after surgery, but the tightness will begin to subside as you exercise.

Report any persistent tightness or pain to a physician immediately.

• Some burning, tingling, numbness, or soreness may also occur.

These symptoms may be felt on the back of the arm and/or on the chest wall and are often a result of the surger y irritating some of your ner ves.

The sensations of burning, tingling, numbness, and soreness may even increase a few weeks after surger y.

But the ACS advises women to keep exercising through these symptoms unless they notice unusual swelling or tenderness, which should be reported to physicians right away.

• Exercise after a warm shower.

A warm shower may warm and relax muscles, making exercise less painful.

• Dress appropriately. Comfortable, loose fitting clothing can make it easier to do exercises, as such attire is not restrictive.

More information regarding exercise after breast cancer surger y, including specific exercise recommendations, can be found at www. cancer.org.

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Screen out mammogram myths to stay healthy

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BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

reast cancer is one of the leading cancers afflicting women worldwide. According to BreastCancer.org, in 2018, an estimated 266,120 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 63,960 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the United States.

Women want to do whatever possible to avoid breast cancer or detect it early. Mammograms have long been an important tool in women’s fight against breast cancer.

But for as long as mammograms have been recommended, myths have prevailed concerning the procedure and its benefits and risks. Learning to distinguish between mammogram myths and facts can help women recognize the importance of these effective screenings.

Myth: I’m too young for a mammogram.

Fact: A yearly mammogram is recommended for women age 40 and older to help detect breast cancer early. This may lead to less aggressive treatment and a higher rate of survival.

Myth: I don’t need an annual mammogram because I have no symptoms or family history.

Fact: The American College of Radiology recommends annual screening mammograms regardless of symptoms or family history. Early-stage breast cancers may not exhibit symptoms. Women whose breast cancer is caught in its earliest stages have a five-year survival rate of 99 percent.

Myth: I have breast implants so I can’t get screened.

Fact: Women with breast implants can still have regular mammograms. Special positioning and additional images may be needed, but the procedure is possible.

Myth: Mammograms are ineffective.

Fact: According to British Columbia Cancer Screening, mammograms are the gold standard for detecting breast cancer early. Mammograms may detect breast cancer two to three years before a woman or a health care provider can feel lumps.

Myth: Mammograms are foolproof.

Fact: Mammogram screenings are not perfect and are just one tool in helping to detect cancer. Age or breast density can influence the appearance of breast tissue on mammograms. It’s important to note that the inherent qualities of the cancer and how it responds to treatment can affect outcome even if the breast cancer is detected earlier, offers Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Myth: Mammograms are the only imaging tools.

Fact: Breast MRI, breast ultrasound, and newer 3-D breast mammography are alternative imaging methods that can help obtain different views of breast tissue, particularly for women with dense breasts.

Myth: I can’t get a mammogram without a prescription.

Fact: In many cases, women do not need a doctor’s order or prescription to get a screening mammogram.

Individuals can self-refer for an annual appointment.

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527 Emor y Drive 137 2nd Street • Henderson, KY 42420 (27 860-9783 (270) cottagewigs.com • Facebook-The Cottage Wig Shoppe

(Next to Wesleyan Park Plaza)

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Fast Mail-Order Ser vice Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Closed Sundays & Holidays

684-0649 Pharmacist/Owner: BILL SEWELL Pharmacist: TRAVIS SEWELL

12 Think Pink

Sunday, September 30, 2018 Messenger-Inquirer

1 IN 8 WOMEN WILL GET BREAST CANCER.

The 5-year survival rate when caught early, can be as high as

% 99

*

TAKE ACTION. GET YOUR MAMMOGRAM. A simple mammogram can help you be less concerned about the “what ifs” of breast cancer so you can focus on what really matters. And, with the added benefit of 3D technology at all of our locations as well as walk-in service, you’ll want to call today to get an accurate picture of your breast health.

CALL 1-844-50-MAMMO TODAY! SEVERAL AREA LOCATIONS • OWENSBOROHEALTH.ORG/MAMMOGRAM * H T T P:/ / W W 5.KO MEN.O R G/ BR EA S TCA N CER / CH A N CES F OR S U R V I VA LBA S ED ON CA N C E RS TAG E .H T M L

GET YOUR MAMMOGRAM IN OCTOBER & RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY MANICURE SET