OT - Mammograms

I found a lump a couple of weeks ago, and had mammograms, ultrasound, and ended up with a biopsy yesterday, so I'm waiting on the phone to ring to find out if I've got cancer. I am diligent with mammograms because my mother died of breast cancer. I figured if I have cancer, it couldn't have been there long. This thing is the size of a golf ball and sticks out the side, and a DIGITAL DIAGNOSTIC mammogram still won't pick it up. It turns out they only catch 85% of cancers. WTH? Did y'all know that? Apparently, it's very important to do the self-exams and know what you're doing.

Wanda, I do hope that your tests are negative for cancer. It has to be extremely difficult for you especially since your mom died due to breast cancer. Keep us posted. 

Sending prayers your way. Thankyou for sharing withus the importance of self breast exams.

Sher

Apparently there is also a link from breast cancer to prostate cancer. My dad has prostate cancer and I'm carrying a LOT of guilt this year..I skipped my mamo last year...too many excuses. Too busy, lost the paper, forgot, got a busy signal at the place....whatever. I will get my mamo this year, a bone scan AND the colon exam too...as punishment.

Dawn, get thyself to the doctor and get your mammograms. Just about everybody I know that's had breast cancer missed "just one" visit. My biopsy was benign, thank goodness. I'll be having an MRI every year, 2 mammograms a year, and a thorough squeezing by an expert 4 times a year.

wow.  i just had mine today.  85%?  i had no idea it was that LOW.  i will have to get on the ball with my self-checks.  thank god you caught this when you did.  i'm glad to hear it was benign but i know early detection is crucial.  i was looking at statistics for breast cancer in the waiting room and was aghast at how quickly the odds go up over 40.