Breast Health Screening: Understanding Thermal Screening and Other Diagnostic Tests
Routine breast care has the primary goal of detecting breast cancer early.
Routine breast care can be used to detect other benign or noncancerous conditions. Looking for specialist in breast care? Prameya Health through PRANA SAKHI routinely conducts women’s wellness programs aimed at breast care.
Changes to your breasts can include:
Lump
Leaky fluid (distinct from breastmilk)
Swelling
Skin irritation/dimpling
Nipple problems like Nipple pain, nipple redness or flaking
Nipple may turn inward
However, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) do not recommend breast self-examination (BSE). The reason for this is that BSE may not reduce the risk of breast cancer mortality.
A clinical breast exam (CBE) should be performed during your physical exam. According to the American college of obstetricians and gynecologists (ACG), women aged 29 to 39 should receive a CBE from a health care provider every 1-3 years. Women aged 40 and over should receive a breast exam every year.
However, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) believe there is insufficient evidence to support the use of CBEs in women aged 40 and above. Hence, diagnostic tests like Mammography are preferred.
Thermal Screening
Thermal screening is the most common type of imaging test and it can detect cancer or other problems before a lump can appear. It can also detect other breast problems. However, a biopsy is necessary to determine if cancer is present.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend that women who are at a higher risk for breast cancer discuss this with their healthcare providers.
Breast ultrasound
Ultrasounds are diagnostic equipment where sound waves to create images of internal organs. A breast ultrasound can provide your doctor with more information about your breast lump. For instance, an ultrasound can tell your doctor if your breast lump is solid or fluid-filled. Your doctor will use this information to determine what tests you may need next.
Breast MRI
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field (MRI) and radio waves (MRI) to create images of the interior of your body.
A breast MRI can produce more detailed images of your breast. In some cases, this technique is used to check for other types of cancer in your breast. It can also be used to check for cancer in your other breast.
Removing a sample of breast cells for testing
A biopsy is an outpatient procedure where a healthcare professional inserts a needle into breast tissue, guides it through the skin using imaging techniques, and removes the tissue. A marker may be inserted to track the area of concern on imaging tests.
Testing cells in the lab
PRANA SAKHI by Prameya Health is regularly conducting a comprehensive Breast Cancer Support Group Program. Join the program and enhance the quality of life.
