FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Breast cancer affects thousands of women every year. According to Dr. Christine Zhang, “One out of eight women has the chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime, and, unfortunately, one out of 42 women will die from the disease.”
Early detection is crucial, as it significantly increases the chances of survival. “The survival rate when breast cancer is detected early is quite substantial,” Dr. Zhang explained. “Stage 1 breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of 93%.”
Despite high survival rates and advances in treatment, doctors continue to see new cases of breast cancer. Dr. Zhang notes that many women remain hesitant to come in for their screening mammograms, often because of concerns about how the imaging is done and the discomfort it may cause.
The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to a decline in screening rates, as fewer women sought medical appointments during that time.
At the newly opened Kaiser Permanente Fresno Orchard Plaza Medical Offices, mammogram screenings are now available to patients. Dr. Zhang, a Medical Oncologist, says routine screenings typically begin at age 40. However, women with higher risk factors may need to start earlier.
“Women with a known family history of a BRCA gene mutation or a strong family history of breast cancer in first-degree and second-degree relatives are recommended to begin screening at a younger age,” she said.
In addition to clinical screenings, Dr. Zhang emphasizes the importance of self-exams at home, particularly for younger women. “We recommend self-exams in the shower or after the shower for women of all age groups,” she advised.
Health experts stress that if you notice anything unusual, you should see your doctor immediately. They also encourage reminding the women in your life to schedule and keep their yearly mammogram appointments. Early detection saves lives.
https://abc30.com/post/what-women-should-know-ahead-national-mammography-day/18020432/