Know Your Breasts

On Friday I will proudly be wearing pink in the clinic to support Breast Cancer Awareness month, which wraps up at the end of October. There’s been a flood of media coverage on the topic, and rightfully so. Rather than overwhelm you with more information, I thought I’d review the basics and point you to some fun and useful tools to stay healthy.

Sign Up for a Monthly Breast Self-Exam Reminder

A Breast Self-Exam (BSE) should be part of your monthly routine. Write it on your calendar, set a reminder on your phone, and ask a friend to be your BSE Buddy so you can remind each other when it is time for your exam. Many organizations also offer a monthly BSE email reminder service. You can sign up for free at GetInTouchFoundation.org

Or, if you’d prefer a reminder from the “hot guy of your choice,” download Rethink Breast Cancer’s Your Man Reminder app.

For a sneak peek at the guys, check out this video. In a comedic turn, a male model demonstrates on himself how to conduct a BSE. (It’s a tad racy but not R-rated.)

For more information on BSE and a link to a step-by-step guide to the procedure, please visit:
http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam/

Ask Your Physician about Mammograms

Mammogram testing is one area where opinions differ among doctors and researchers with regard to frequency. For the most part, it is agreed that women over 40 should get a mammogram every one or two years. However, risk factors differ from person to person, and each individual’s testing schedule may be different regardless of age. I suggest you discuss with your doctor the various risk factors as well as your family’s medical history. From there, your doctor can recommend an exam schedule and any other steps that may be taken to reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Remember, Breast Cancer Awareness month isn’t the only time to “think pink.” Make it a habit to keep breast health in mind.

Dr. Jeff Pinkerton
I care for you.