Breast self-exam key in catching what mammogram may miss

by Cindy Ward (ward@wsbt.com)

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Mammograms and breast cancer

Doctors say mammograms miss about 10 percent of breast cancers, making breast self-exams essential. (WSBT photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Jul 22, 2008 at 2:11 PM EST

Story Updated: Apr 17, 2009 at 12:43 PM EST

SOUTH BEND — The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chance of survival. Self-exams once a month are key, even if you have regular mammograms.

Doctors say one of the biggest misconceptions about mammograms is that they catch everything — that if you have a mammogram, you don't have to bother with breast self-exams.

"What they need to understand is that in women who are diagnosed with breast cancer, about 10 percent of those will have a normal mammogram,” explained Dr. Brett Stephens, a radiologist.

Stephens says that number is even higher in younger women. He says he's read more than 150,000 mammograms over the last 20 years.

“Across the board radiologists miss about 10 percent of breast cancers,” he said.

Stephens says this is especially true in younger women who usually have denser breasts. Mammograms are not quite as effective for them.

"This means that women need to do their breast self-exam because about 10 percent or even 15 percent of the time, they're going to be the ones to find their breast cancer,” he said.

We are our own best line of defense. That's why WSBT News has teamed up with Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center to invite you to become part of our Pink Pack.

Here's how it works:

You pick a friend to be your Pink Pack Pal. Then you request a Pink Pack.

You'll get a breast self-exam guide, a pen and a kitchen magnet — one for you and one for your Pink Pack Pal. We'll remind you on the 22nd of every month to call your Pink Pal and remind her to do her breast self-exam. And remember to do yours the same day. Early detection saves lives.

Become a member of the Pink Pack right away — it could save a life.

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