Tigrinya: መርመራ መንሽሮ ጡብ | A Test for Breast Cancer

መርመራ መንሽሮ ጡብ A Test for Breast Cancer A mammogram is a test that looks for changes in the breast, including changes caused by breast cancer. Mammograms use x-rays to see breast cancer before you even notice any signs that there might be a problem. If the mammogram shows that there is cancer, then doctors can give you treatment for the cancer early, when it is small and easier to treat. This lowers your risk of dying from breast cancer. Many people are scared of getting tested for cancer, and that is understandable. However, many cancers–including breast cancer–are very treatable when they are found early. Starting at age 40, you should get a mammogram every year, even if you have not noticed any changes or pain in your breasts. If you do notice changes in your breasts, tell your doctor or primary care provider. They might recommend that you get a mammogram, even if you are not yet 40 years old. You may need to get a mammogram before age 40 if you have close family members who have had cancer. Tell your doctor about anyone in your family who has had cancer. Ask your doctor or primary care provider for help scheduling a mammogram. They will order the test for you and then the hospital will call you to schedule your appointment. Try to schedule your mammogram to happen about 1—2 weeks after your menstrual period ends, so that your breasts are less tender. On the day of your mammogram, you should wash under your arms and your breasts Do not use deodorants, perfumes, lotions, or powders that day. Wear clothes that you can change in and out of easily. Do not wear any necklaces. The person performing the mammogram will be a woman. You will stand in front of the x-ray machine. One at a time, the medical provider will place each breast between two flat plates. These will press down on your breast. This will feel uncomfortable for a few seconds. Try to relax. The medical provider will ask you to stay still and to take a deep breath and hold it while each x-ray is taken. X-rays will be taken from different angles of each breast. The process will last about 10 minutes. In the days after the test, a doctor will examine the x-rays and send the results to your primary care provider. If any of the x-rays are not clear, you may need to re-do parts of the test. Ask the person who does your mammogram when your results will be ready and how to learn about them. Mammograms are an important way that you can take care of your health. Getting a mammogram can save your life.