The whole point of performing a mammogram is to detect cancer at its earliest stage. During these “covidian” times many women have chosen to delay their annual mammogram based on recommendations provided by the American Society of Clinical Oncology in May of this year that stated “cancer screening mammograms and colonoscopy be postponed for the time being.” But, that also comes with an asterisk.
“For patients who are at higher risk for breast cancer, for example those with a family history or those with a positive test for BRCA1 should not delay,” says Cathy Cole, NP, MPH, CHES, FNBC, Oncology Nurse Navigator for the Breast Program at Los Robles Health System. “COVID-19 should not be a deterrent for women who are at higher risk to get screened. Breast cancer won’t wait for the pandemic to end.”
While delaying may be OK for some for a short time, omitting is not. It is likely that many women will omit their annual screening entirely, thinking that one year won’t matter. “This is especially worrisome among minority patients,” says Cole. “The unfortunate reality is that COVID will be here for a while, and given unemployment and loss of insurance for many lower income workers – health screenings and simple health maintenance become lower priority after paying rent and putting food on the table.”
Now more than ever, it is critical that women take their breast health into their own hands. The new normal may be here but it should not be a barrier to getting a mammogram. The Los Robles Imaging Center has adopted all the precautions and protocols to ensure the safety of their patients coming in for a mammogram, including social distancing, temperature screening and strict sanitation.
Mammograms are still the gold standard for finding abnormalities as well as defining any new change with ultrasound. Whether you choose a traditional 2-D mammogram or 3-D mammography which allows the radiologist to see the breast tissue in greater detail, the key is to make sure to get your annual screenings. For those at higher risk, don’t delay; for those at normal risk, schedule your appointment in the near future.
Early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer has contributed to a greater than 90% survival rate when cancer is caught in its earliest stages. For more information about Los Robles Imaging Center or to make an appointment, call 805.523.8062.