We all do it… get busy, put something off, save it for another day. One of the places where excuses run free – scheduling your annual screening mammogram. Several mammography technologists at Wake Radiology UNC REX Healthcare are here to uncover ways to turn excuses into action. We don’t want fear or a lack of understanding to drive decisions about your breast health.
Excuse #1: I’m just too busy.
We know your time is extremely valuable. We’ll get you in, out and on your way in 30 minutes or less. WakeRad REX offers 3D screening mammograms at 13 outpatient offices throughout the greater Triangle. Add convenient access to early, late and Saturday appointments and you can get a time that easily fits your schedule.
Excuse #2: I eat right, exercise and try to stay healthy so I probably don’t have breast cancer.
You’re doing all the right things. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle does lower your risk for breast cancer (and a number of health conditions). It does not, however, eliminate your chances of getting the disease. 3D mammography is the best screening tool to detect breast cancer early when it is easier to treat. Add an annual screening to your list of healthy habits!
Excuse #3: I’m scared. I’m over 40 and I’ve never had a mammogram.
Fear around mammograms comes from two places – women don’t know what to expect and they’re scared of having breast cancer. Our mammography technologists (who are always female) fully explain the procedure, make sure you’re comfortable, and actually perform the screening. While the thought of a breast cancer diagnosis is scary, not knowing can also bring anxiety. 3D mammograms offer greater clarity to help detect breast cancer at its earliest stage regardless of a woman’s age, medical history or breast density. Know that our calm, compassionate breast care team will be with you through every step. In fact, women often tell us that their first mammogram wasn’t as nerve-wrecking or painful as expected.
Excuse #4: I don’t have an order from my doctor to get a mammogram.
You actually don’t need a doctor’s order to have a screening mammogram. If you’re 40 years old and have seen a doctor within the past 18 months, you can schedule your own exam. Plus, most insurance companies will pay 100% for your screening mammogram.
Excuse #5: My last mammogram was negative, so I think I’ll skip a few years.
We’re thankful you were cancer free, but this logic doesn’t really hold. Most of us still have routine dental cleanings even if we don’t have cavities. We admit this comparison could be a stretch, but it helps explain that preventative screenings are important to good health.
Every day, we see how breast tissues change as women age and experience hormonal changes. Regularly, we see cancers present in between annual screening mammograms. Starting at age 40, an annual 3D screening mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer early when it’s easiest to treat. If you’ve decided to skip a year or two, please reconsider – for your health and for those who care about you.
Excuse #6: Why bother? It’s been years since my last mammogram.
Late is better than never. We believe historical information allows for more accurate interpretations and less frequent call backs. That’s why we make every effort (with your permission) to obtain all prior mammogram images for comparison.
Excuse #7: How do I know if the results are accurate?
WakeRad REX is the Triangle’s leader in 3D mammography. All of our offices have the latest imaging to obtain a series of quality breast images. These images are then interpreted by our dedicated breast imaging radiologists. Certified technologists, quality images and subspecialty trained radiologists helps ensure we provide an actionable diagnosis to all of our patients.
To schedule you screening mammogram appointment at any of our outpatient locations, call 919-232-4700 or click here to request complete our online appointment request.