The mammogram will be performed by a radiologic technologist specializing in mammography. The technologist has completed a rigorous course in education and training and works under close supervision of the radiologist to assure the most accurate results from your examination.

You will be asked to undress from the waist up. The technologist will position your breast and gently compress it upon the image plate (which contains the film). It is necessary to spread the breast to reduce the thickness of the breast. This for lower doses of radiation and the clearest possible x-ray image. You will probably have at two pictures taken in slightly different positions. The procedure will then be repeated for the other breast.

The amount of radiation received during a mammogram is very low - it is about equivalent to that received from a round-trip L.A. to N.Y. flight.

How Long Will The Entire Exam Take?

Usually about 15 to 30 minutes.

How Will I Learn The Results?

The radiologist (a physician specialist) will study your mammogram. The results will be made available to you from your designated health care provider or practitioner, or the radiologist, depending upon who was your initial contact.

A regular program of breast self-examination, mammography and physical
exams most effectively provides early detection and treatment. Roughly 96%
of all breast cancer cases can be detected when all three methods are used
together in a planned program.

Many normal breasts (for women under 50) tend to be lumpy and are not a
sign of cancer. Every woman should become familiar with the look and feel
of her own breasts so that she will be able to recognize any changes that
might occur.

Breast Self-Examination

Step 1- Look for Changes

• Stand or sit (with arms at your side) in front of a mirror under good light and look for changes in the size, shape, texture or color of your breasts. Check for indentations, pulled-in nipples, scaliness, rash or prolonged skin conditions.
  
  
• Next, raise your arms above your head and repeat the same steps. Also,
  turn in profile, and examine your breast from the side.
  
  
• Now, press your hands down upon your hips and tense your chest muscles.
  This will make any changes more prominent.

Step 2 - Feel for Changes

• Begin by lying flat on your back with a pillow under your shoulder. Use the pads of three fingers in a bowed-out position. Move your fingers in circles about the size of a dime. You can use cream or powder to help your fingers glide from one spot to the next. Use light, medium and firm pressure at each spot to examine the full thickness of your breast tissue. Large breasted women should do the above exam while lying on their side. If any changes are noted, call your healthcaYe specialist right away.

The method outlined above is a new approach researched by the American
Cancer Society. It covers a larger area in a more detailed manner.

What Is A Mammogram?

A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray procedure that films the internal
tissues of your breasts. Mammograms are a simple exam, performed as a
standard diagnostic study, to determine the possibility of irregularities
within the breast. They can reveal areas too small or deep to feel which
may or may not require further investigation.

Does Every Woman Need A Mammogram?

Yes. Presently we don't know the cause of breast cancer, but early
detection is a woman's best protection. A mammogram may help discover a
change as small as the head of a pin, years before it can be felt.
Additionally, having mammograms done on a regular basis allows for
comparisons of a baseline study with future mammograms. This provides a
more accurate assessment of any breast changes. The sooner detected, the
easier and more successful the treatment.

When Should I Have My Mammogram?

The American Cancer Society guidelines, based upon numerous scientific
studies, suggest that most women begin by age 40 and continue yearly for
the rest of their lives. Your health care provider can help you determine
when you should begin and how often you should have a mammogram based upon
specific medical facts in your family history.

Remember:

Tell your doctor or technologist, if you are pregnant, think you may be, or
if you've had breast surgery.

You should also:

• Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing jewelry, deodorants and
  powders - metallics may interfere with the accuracy of the film image.
  
  
• For a more comfortable exam, schedule mammograms for the week after the
  onset of your period.
  
  
• Bring previous mammograms for comparison.

Questions You May Have:

This brochure is intended to serve as a simple guide. It can never replace
the conversations you may have with your own doctor. It is not a substitute
for professional care.

Published for you by The St. John Companies. Inc. Box 800460, Santa
Clarita, CA 91380 Phone Free: (800) 435-4242 . Fax Free: (800) 321-4409
CAT. NO. PM-MAM

1999 THE ST JOHN COMPANIES


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