October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer, other than skin cancer, in women in the U.S. In addition to mammography, annual breast exams are one of the most important tools in regard to early cancer detection. All women over age 20 should perform monthly breast self-examinations. The following link from the American Cancer Association contains intructions and demonstrates the proper way to perform a breast self-exam.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/cri/content/cri_2_6x_how_to_perform_a_breast_self_exam_5.asp
In addition to self-exams, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends a baseline mammogram for all women by age 40. Locally, in St. Louis you can get your "mammogram to go" by making an appointment to visit one of Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s Mammography Vans, which brings quality mammography services to women in St. Louis and surrounding areas (Funded mammograms available for those without health insurance).
http://www.barnesjewish.org/cancer/default.asp?NavID=3253
If you live in other parts of the United States, you can perform a search through the American College of Radiology to identify a mammography center closest to you.
http://www.acr.org/accreditation/accreditedFacilitySearch.aspx
Or you can also try calling your local hospital to find out if there are any promotional mammography testing normally offered during this time of the year. Make early detection your best protection for good health and wellness.
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