My families on both my mother’s side and my father’s side do not have a history of breast cancer. So I am not concerned about it myself.
In fact, I have never done a mammogram in my whole life. Even when I pass the 50 mark in a few years, I do not plan to do it.
However, I often hear about other women having breast cancer. The situation is getting worse.
Recently I read a few articles on breast cancer. If you are interested in the topic, check out the following links. I know there are tons of information out there on the Internet. There is a lot more I can read.
Do’s and don’ts to prevent breast cancer
Breast Cancer Breakthrough – Cut Your Risk of Death in Half (Also read some comments)
My staff member was just diagnosed with stage III breast cancer. She is 38. By the age of 40 she would be dead. Are these recommendations made by doctors or insurance industries. Also, where are doctors getting their information? How many of you know that Colgate was the first one to recommend seeing your dentist for a cleaning and exam every 6 months. So what is an industry standard started from Colgate Marketing. Is anything based on research?
Ann is right. If I had not followed my physician’s advice when I was diagnosed with cancer some yrs ago, I would have been DEAD by now. My good fortune was due in part to a physician who recommended a precautionary test (kind of a parallel for the mammogram) that I took annualy beginning around age 40. Sure, you should look at the options (if any) when it comes to medical treatment. But your silly, frivolous attitude could be a recipe for disaster.
You need to be be your own advocate for your health. It is really stupid to purposefully choose to not have a mammogram. I started mine at age 40. I was diagnosed with HER2+ breast cancer at at 41 after my 2nd mammogram. I have no family history. I do not carry the abnormal BRAC1 BRACA2 gene. Hello!! You should use your column to empower women to take charge of their health. Being proud of NOT getting a mammogam is extremely STUPID!
I am my own advocate for my health. That’s why I don’t always follow what doctors say I should do. I am only sharing information and what I do. I am not giving anyone medical advice. Your health is your choice. You do what is best for yourself or what your doc says is best for you.
Read your above article. I have NO history of breast cancer in my family. My family doctors have always encouraged me to have a mammogram as part of yearly physical. 4 years ago on a routine exam a tumor was found where none had been the year before. It was agressive and HER2 positive. Thank God for the wonderful Cancer Center and Dr Michael Messino and Dr Michele LeBlanc her in Asheville I am alive and recovering today. It can happen to anyone and I do encourage you to have the exam. Best of luck to you and continued good health. Mary E. Phillips
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