Early Diagnosis Is Key
There is no disagreement that early and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer is the key to improving clinical outcomes. Mammography – and in particular, digital mammography and the new Hologic 3D mammography (breast tomosynthesis) systems are widely regarded as the gold standard for detecting early breast cancer disease. In most cases, mammography can identify an abnormal breast mass as much as two years before a physical change would be noticed.
The American Cancer Society, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Radiology, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure agree that breast cancer screening should begin at age 40 – even earlier if a woman is at greater risk for developing breast cancer.
Be Aware
One half of all cases of breast cancer in women 50 years and older and more than 70% of cases of cancer in women younger than 50 years are detected by women themselves. Become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. If you are concerned about a change in your breast or you feel a lump - be sure to have it checked out by your Health Care Provider and be sure to ask your healthcare provider the proper way to do a breast self-exam.
DId You Know?
Breast cancer is not gender specific and can affect men. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be approximately 2,140 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed in men and approximately 450 men will die from breast cancer in 2011. For every 100 cases of breast cancer diagnosed less than 1 case is found in men.
Early detection continues to be the key in the fight against breast cancer. Women should learn the proper way to do a breast self-exam and do it once a month. If a woman is 40 or over, she should remember to schedule a yearly mammogram. Even a few months delay can make a difference.
Additional information on breast health:
|
View your benefits at
BCBS of MA Plan Summaries.
National Dental Hygiene Month
Healthy habits create a healthy smile is the motto for
National Dental Hygiene Month!
According to the Center for Disease Control, oral health is an important aspect of our overall health. It is easy to incorporate a simple oral health regimen into an active and busy life in order to maintain optimal oral health. Here are a few tips:
| • |
Drink fluoridated water and use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride's protection against tooth decay works at all ages. |
| • |
Take care of your teeth and gums: Tooth brushing and flossing to reduce dental plaque can prevent gingivitis—the mildest form of gum disease. |
| • |
Eat wisely: Avoid snacks full of sugars and starches. |
| • |
Visit the dentist regularly, every 6 months: Check-ups can detect early signs of oral health problems and can lead to treatments that will prevent further damage, and in some cases, reverse the problem. Professional tooth cleaning is key to preventing oral problems. |
Remember, a healthy smile is a start to overall good health!
