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Early detection is essential to fight breast cancer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brittany A. Chase
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  October turns pink here in order to raise awareness for the more than 39,000 women who could potentially die from breast cancer, the second most common type of cancer in women.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 295,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women throughout 2013.

These statistics amount to one in eight women who will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. With such alarming rates, how can women prevent becoming one of those numbers?

"Early detection is the answer, saving lives," said Maj. Brian Johnston, 366th Surgical Operations Squadron diagnostic radiologist. "Annual mammograms, allow us to detect breast cancer at earlier stages where it's easier to treat and eradicate."

Mammograms consist of two x-ray pictures of each breast, a way of detecting breast cancer by producing black and white images of the breast tissue.

"Annual mammograms beginning at age 40 are recommended," said Johnston. "Some women may need to start their mammogram screening earlier depending upon certain risk factors. Primary care providers can help determine if early screening is needed."

With recent technology advances in mammograms, the simple test can help improve the lifespan in women.

"Mammography has been proven to save lives," said Johnston. "Since 1990, screening mammograms have helped reduce the death rate from breast cancer in the U.S. by nearly 33 percent."

MHAFB has drastically improved their numbers by becoming the second highest mammogram screening flight in Air Combat Command.

"The diagnostic imaging flight performed an eight-step process to improve numbers," said Johnston. "We improved the tracking and scheduling process, calling patients at more opportune times, writing scripts to educate and schedule patients as well as generating mailers for patients."

A patient increased her chances of beating breast cancer by receiving early detection screening, providing her the opportunity to fight the cancer before it got to the later stages.

"On July 22, 2013, my life changed when I was diagnosed with breast cancer," said Sylvia Sisneros, recovering breast cancer patient. "I implore all women out there to have a yearly mammogram, it saved my life."