"October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and we want to encourage women (and men) to be aware of this disease, the second most common cause of cancer deaths among women.

According to the Center for Disease Control, in 2005 (the most recent year numbers are available), 186,467 women and 1,764 men were diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition, 41,116 women and 375 men died from the disease. Breast cancer is number 7 in the top 10 causes of death in women, behind diseases of the heart, cerebrovascular diseases, lung and bronchus cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, Alzheimer’s disease and accidents.

Men need to be aware of breast cancer as well. Although the occurrence is much lower in men than women, the American Cancer Society estimates in 2009 around 1,910 new cases will be diagnosed in men.

The best method to detect breast cancer is a mammogram. The CDC recommends women older than the age of 40, or at-risk younger women to have a mammogram every one to two years.

During a mammogram, the breast is compressed between two plates. The American Cancer Society says of a mammogram, “although this may be uncomfortable for a moment, it is necessary to produce a good, readable mammogram. The compression only lasts a few seconds. The entire procedure for a screening mammogram takes about 20 minutes.”

The American Cancer Society recommends you schedule your mammogram when your breasts are not tender and to try to avoid having the test the week just before your period.

At home, you should get familiar with your breasts. Check for lumps, changes in size or shape or any other changes in the breasts or underarm. Visit the American Cancer Society

Web site for illustrated step-by-step instructions at www.cancer.org, or ask your doctor to show you how to do a self-exam. However, if you are older than 40, you should do this in addition to a mammogram.

Early detection is the most important factor in fighting breast cancer. According to www.thebreastcancersite.com, if detected early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer exceeds 96 percent.

Do not let the cost of a mammogram keep you from having a screening. There are several places to get a low-cost mammogram. The American Cancer Society offers a hotline, 1-800-227-2345, for information about the facilities in our area.

In addition, the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) provides assistance for early detection testing to low-income women, ages 40-64, without health insurance and the underserved. To find out more about this program, visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp. To find out if you qualify for a free or low-cost mammogram and pap, call 1-800-462-6122 or 1-800-4-CANCER.

The Madison County Health Department also offers breast exams, pap smears and pelvic exams, breast self-exam instruction and mammogram referral for free or a minimal fee based on income. For details or to set up an appointment, call 623-7312.

Start monthly self-breast exams, get familiar with your breasts. If you notice any changes, call your health provider. If you're older than 40, and never had a mammogram, get out there and do it. No excuses."

This article is from the Richmond Register and discusses the necessity of getting screened regularly.