Catch It Early: Get Your Mammogram Today
By Fara Iezazzy | May 2nd, 2025
Breast Cancer – A disease where abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming tumours (WHO, 2024). It is one of the most common diseases among women and is increasing by approximately 1% per year, according to research. While anyone can develop breast cancer, it is especially common among women of all ages after puberty. Early detection is key, and one way to do this is by consulting a doctor and getting checked regularly.
Mammogram is a diagnostic tool that captures X-ray images of the breast to help detect early signs of breast cancer. Studies have shown that mammograms can identify cancerous tumours up to 3 years before symptoms or pain appear. Mammograms are not only essential for those with family history of breast cancer but also for anyone experiencing the following signs or symptoms (WHO, 2024):
A breast lump or thickening, often without pain
Changes in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
Dimpling, redness, pitting, or other changes in the skin
Alterations in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple
Abnormal or bloody fluid coming from the nipple
Getting a mammogram check up offers a lot of benefits which include:
Early detection: It helps diagnose breast cancer early, often before symptoms appear.
Increase survival rates: Early treatments can help to prevent the condition from getting worse.
Improve treatment outcomes: It promotes more effective treatments and better results.
Reduce breast cancer mortality: It helps lower the risk of fatality from breast cancer.
Peace of mind: It gives you confidence that any issues can be managed before it’s too late.
In addition, women above 40 years old are recommended to undergo mammograms for breast health check ups yearly.
Let’s dive into these short stories about the patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
Angela was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. She underwent 5 sessions of radiotherapy, took Letrozole for 5 years, and received Herceptin for a year. Despite her fears about the future, Angela remained determined to live her life as usual, with the support of her family and close friends.
So, how did Angela find out about her diagnosis? Yes, a mammogram. She had been following a routine mammogram, which helped detect the disease early. Angela felt incredibly relieved that she went for the screening, especially since many people overlook such important health checks. She firmly believes that mammograms save lives.
2. Annie’s sister discovered a lump in her breast in March 2022. She decided to do a self-exam as well, and surprisingly, she found a lump too. Not sure whether it is a tumour or not, Annie and her sister both decided to go for mammograms right away. After the screenings, they underwent biopsies and several follow-up appointments and within a week, they were both diagnosed with breast cancer. She mentioned that the whole experience was surreal, but Annie is grateful that the mammogram has helped them catch it early.
Based on both short stories, it can be concluded that mammograms play a crucial role in detecting breast cancer early. By identifying abnormalities before symptoms even appear, mammograms can help catch the disease in its early stages, which significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Both Angela and Annie (and her sister) were able to seek timely medical intervention thanks to mammograms, proving that early diagnosis can truly make a life-saving difference.
In conclusion, mammograms are an essential tool in finding breast cancer early, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Both personal stories shared highlight the importance of routine screenings in catching the disease before symptoms appear. If you haven’t yet had your mammogram, we encourage you to prioritize your health and schedule an appointment today. Early detection saves lives, and taking that first step could make all the difference.
Appointments are available on our website. Don't wait—book your mammogram session today.
