PANDEMIC MAKES
Pink Ribbons
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MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER FROM OREGON MEDICAL GROUP
INCE OCTOBER WAS DESIGNATED National Breast Cancer Awareness month many years ago, we’ve all made the shift from blushing when the topic of breast cancer surfaces, to knowing how common it is and how easily it can be addressed if found early. And since 3D mammography became standard, women have received fewer ‘call backs’ for a second look, and the accuracy of the screenings has improved many times over. Still, women tend to postpone this important preventative health screening. Combined with the appointments missed over the pandemic, the team at Oregon Medical Group believes it’s important to raise the pink flag higher, to encourage women not just to be aware of breast cancer, but to actually get an appointment on their calendars.
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If you came of mammogram age over the last few years and postponed scheduling yours, here’s a run-down of what you should know about breast health and screenings:
WHEN TO START The guidelines for when to start your breast cancer screenings are not simply age-based, as they used to be. Variables include your family health history, your medical history and your age. If you are under 40, but have a family history of breast cancer, you should speak with your doctor now so that you have a plan for screenings that reflects your risk level. Otherwise, in general, if you are 40 or older and you haven’t had a mammogram in the past year, you may be due. The frequency of your scans is something you should discuss with your primary care provider or OB/GYN.
O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M
OCTOBER 2022
