Prioritize Yourself: Mammograms Matter, Even in a Pandemic

By Alicia Wanek

**Many of us have had to put something in our lives on hold this year.** Vacations have been delayed until it’s safer to travel. Major purchases may be on the back burner until the economy stabilizes. Weddings are postponed until all friends and family can gather to celebrate. The one thing we should not wait on is taking care of our health, and for women, it’s especially important to get your mammogram on the calendar. **Stephanie Corbin-Helms**, Regional Director of Marketing for Envision Radiology points out, “Too often, as caregivers, women take care of others first and neglect themselves…You need to make it a priority to take care of yourself, too.”

According to an analysis by Epic Health Research Network, during the period from March 15 to June 16 of this year, 285,000 breast cancer screenings were missed, representing a 63% decrease from an average year. How that will translate into missed breast cancer diagnoses remains to be seen. **Dr. Tyler Scimeca** from Envision says, “It’s vitally important that women schedule a mammogram every one to two years if they are age 40 or above. If they have any genetic predisposition or family history of breast cancer, those screening mammograms should begin even younger.”

“Too often, as caregivers, women take care of others first and neglect themselves…You need to make it a priority to take care of yourself, too.”
Stephanie Corbin-Helms, Envision Radiology

**Advancements in Breast Imaging Technology**

Breast imaging technology has significantly improved in recent years. Monthly breast self-exams should be routine for all women, but radiologic exams can detect crucial changes long before they can be felt. Envision offers routine screening mammograms at their facilities across DFW, but if a radiologist detects anything suspicious, they provide full diagnostic mammography. Dr. Scimeca states, “Any changes in findings from a previous mammogram, suspicious masses, or dense breast tissue can lead to the need for more complex imaging.” Envision has just added Dallas and Frisco locations along with four other sites in DFW that now offer 3D mammograms. These images provide more detailed views through overlapping breast tissue, leading to earlier detection of breast cancer and fewer false positives. Envision assures all patients that whatever procedures they need will be performed in the safest environment. Stephanie Corbin-Helms confirms, “We are taking all precautions to keep staff and patients safe and incorporating all proper PPE protocols.”

“Any changes in findings from a previous mammogram, suspicious masses, or dense breast tissue can lead to the need for more complex imaging.”
Dr. Tyler Scimeca, Envision Radiology

**Personal Stories and the Importance of Screening**

Breast cancer survivor **Meya Martinez** is thankful for the advanced imaging that detected her cancer in its early stages. Meya shares, “At the age of 31, I went in to get a mammogram, followed by an ultrasound. It was then they decided to perform a biopsy that proved I had an aggressive form of breast cancer. Thanks to the thorough imaging, my cancer was caught early. Eleven years later I’m doing great.” It can be hard to recognize, while taking care of everyone else, that loving yourself is equally important. Ultimately, taking time to prioritize your own health can ensure that, like Meya, you are there for those you love.

Editor’s Note: Envision Radiology provides world-class imaging services. For more information, visit their website at envrad.com.

**Additional Resources:**
– Follow-Up After An Abnormal Mammogram | Susan G. Komen®
– Coronavirus Information | Susan G. Komen®
– Learn About the Warning Signs of Breast Cancer at Susan G. Komen®