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Breast Cancer Screening: What Is New?
Dr. Chimezie C. Amanambu, M.D • Feb 22, 2022
Breast Cancer Screening: What Is New?
Breast cancer is very important disease suffered by both men and women but more common in women. This article will focus on breast cancer in women.
Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in US women being second only to lung cancer. It is estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. In 2015, more than 230,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.
Caucasian women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than African-Americans but breast cancer occurring in women younger than 45 years old is more common in African-Americans. However, African-American women are more likely to die of breast cancer. Breast cancer is less common among Asian, Hispanic and Native-American women.
Mammography has been the principal method of screening for breast cancer. Other methods includ breast ultrasound and breast MRI.
Screening mammography has been shown to reduce breast cancer deaths in women aged 40 to 69 years. However, there is a high rate of false positive (diagnosis of an abnormality when there is none) in young women due to dense breasts. African-American women have dense breasts. These false positive results lead to anxieties and performance (and subsequent performance) of breast biopsies.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently changed their recommendation about breast cancer screening for women at average risk. You can evaluate your risk of breast cancer using the Gail Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool at http://www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool/.
- Start regular screening mammography at 45 years.
- Biennial screening for women 55 years and older.
- Screening mammography should continue for as long as their overall health is good and life expectancy is 10 years or longer.
- The ACS does NOT recommend clinical breast examination by the patient or a clinician because of lack of benefit.
In the bustling streets of Akron and in our surrounding region, commercial drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving. However, the safety of these drivers and the public depends significantly on their physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Recognizing this, Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates offer comprehensive Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, adhering to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements to ensure that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers are in peak condition to navigate the roads safely. Who Needs a DOT Physical? If you're behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people, are compensated to drive a vehicle carrying more than 8 passengers, transport hazardous materials requiring a placard, or operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds on interstate highways, a DOT physical is mandatory for you. This examination is a prerequisite to obtaining your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), a vital document that, along with your commercial driver’s license (CDL), legitimizes your status as a commercial driver for up to two years. The DOT Physical Process Dr. Amanambu's approach to the DOT physical is thorough and patient-centric, ensuring not just compliance with regulations but also prioritizing the driver's health and well-being. The examination encompasses a detailed review of the driver's medical history, including any surgeries, medications, and health conditions. A hands-on physical assessment follows, evaluating various health aspects from vision and hearing to cardiovascular health and neurological function. A urinalysis is also conducted to screen for underlying medical issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Preparing for Your Examination To streamline your visit, Dr. Amanambu recommends coming prepared with a list of your medications, doctors' contact information, and any necessary corrective devices like glasses or hearing aids. For drivers managing conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, bringing recent health records and treatment compliance reports can facilitate a smoother evaluation process. Navigating Health Conditions Certain health issues may necessitate more frequent examinations. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease might require annual reviews, while others, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, could lead to quarterly assessments. Dr. Amanambu's expertise ensures that drivers receive the guidance needed to manage their conditions effectively, aiming for optimal health and safety on the road. Dr. Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates stand at the forefront of ensuring the safety and health of Akron's commercial drivers through meticulous DOT physical examinations. Our commitment to thorough assessments and personalized care helps drivers meet regulatory requirements while fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. If you're a commercial driver, don't wait until the last minute to renew your certification. Book an appointment with Dr. Amanambu today and take the first step towards securing your health and livelihood on the road.
In the journey towards maintaining optimal health, understanding the right time to seek medical attention is crucial. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu, our distinguished internal medicine doctor at Pax Internal Medicine Associates, emphasizes the importance of not delaying care for health concerns. Early intervention can be the key to preventing manageable conditions from becoming serious health issues. Recognizing the Signs Many people wonder when it's necessary to consult an internal medicine doctor. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chronic pain, or fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar levels are clear indicators that it's time to see a specialist. Dr. Amanambu advises that listening to your body's signals is the first step towards taking control of your health. The Role of Preventive Care Preventive care is a cornerstone of internal medicine. Regular check-ups with Dr. Amanambu can identify risk factors and early signs of diseases before they develop into more significant problems. These visits are not just about screening for diseases; they're an opportunity to discuss lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise that can improve your overall well-being. Why Waiting Can Be Costly Delaying medical consultation can lead to conditions worsening or the emergence of complications, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer. Dr. Amanambu stresses that early diagnosis and treatment often result in better health outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. His approach combines cutting-edge medical knowledge with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and timely interventions. Personalized Care at Pax Internal Medicine Associates At Pax Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Amanambu tailors his approach to each patient's unique needs. Understanding that every individual's health journey is different, he provides personalized care plans designed to address specific health concerns and promote long-term health. His expertise in internal medicine allows him to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof. Waiting to seek medical attention can be a gamble with your health—one that's not worth taking. If you're experiencing health issues or if it's simply time for your annual check-up, consulting with Dr. Amanambu is a step in the right direction. His expertise in internal medicine, combined with a proactive approach to healthcare, makes him an invaluable ally in your quest for a healthier life. Remember, in healthcare, timing is everything, and early intervention is often the key to a successful outcome. Take the time today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Amanambu.