Tuesday, October 25, 2011
“Mammogram’s Role as Savior is Tested,” an article published in today’s New York Times health section, questions whether our reliance on mammograms as an early detection tool translates to saving lives. Researchers’ answers? Not for the majority of women. So, should we s...
PJ
Thanks so much for this look at both sides of this issue. It was quite interesting to read the pros and cons of regular mammograms.
Eileen
Thaks, Eileen. It's hard for us older women to get our heads around the fact that maybe mammograms aren't SUCH an important part of our yearly physical. Now I'm trying to think realistically, and wonder if I even need a yearly physical. Won't my body tell me if something is wrong, assuming I stay in touch with it? I don't like spending time at the doctor (and spending $$$$$$) any more than the next person... PJH
It is a difficult concept, it has been our way of life for so long, the annual trek to the doctors, mammogram, etc. and being vigilant about the preventive doctor's visits. Self-awareness is certainly so much more important, after all, we do know our bodies. It is a matter of us taking action as soon as we notice anything wrong or different rather than waiting and hoping it will go away.
Eileen
Exactly right,eileen. It's easy to sit and worry about something, hoping it'll disappear; much harder to confront it head on. But SO much more effective. Action trumps worry any day; if you feel a lump, and it doesn't disappear within a month - DO something about it. See a doctor. It's almost certainly not cancer, but you need to know for sure. Get tested, and move on! Thanks for your feedback here - PJH