CHRISTUS Health promotes mammograms for early cancer detection

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and CHRISTUS Health is emphasizing the importance of mammograms, which can lead to earlier detection of breast cancer, earlier treatments and increased survival rates.

Breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new female cancers each year, with more than 300,000 new cases estimated this year, according to the American Cancer Society.

“Mammograms remain the most effective method for detecting breast cancer in its early stages,” said Dr. Hafez Halawani, medical oncologist at the CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Cancer Center-South. “Early diagnosis significantly increases the five-year survival rate, which is why it’s critical for women to make this potentially life-saving screening a priority.”

Women ages 40-74 who are at average risk of breast cancer are encouraged to get a mammogram once a year, depending on their personal risk factors and in consultation with their health care provider.

Pre-screening plays a vital role in identifying individuals who may be at a higher risk for breast cancer. Factors such as family history, genetic predispositions and certain lifestyle or health conditions can increase a woman’s risk.

“We understand the challenges women face between busy schedules, families and financial concerns,” said Michelle Johnson, breast patient navigator at the CHRISTUS Mamie McFaddin Ward Women’s Center. “We are always taking care of someone else, and our health care can sometimes take a back seat. It’s crucial to prioritize routine screenings because we cannot take care of our families if we don’t take care of ourselves.”

In response to the ongoing need for accessible screening, many CHRISTUS Health facilities are offering extended hours, including evening and weekend mammogram appointments, to accommodate women with busy schedules.

“We want to remind women that a mammogram only takes about 20 minutes, but it could add years to your life,” said Dr. Tyler Leete, medical director of the Ross Brest Center at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System.

Some signs and symptoms of breast cancer are:

• A lump in the breast or armpit
• Swelling or thickness in part of the breast
• Irritated and dimpled breast skin
• Flaky or redness of skin in the nipple or breast area
• Excessive pain in the nipple area
• Size or shape of breast changed

“Mammograms are crucial and are the only way to detect breast cancer early,” said Dr. Maria Palafox, general surgeon with CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital – Beeville. “Get a mammogram, it can truly save your life. Don’t wait until you can eel a lump to act.”