October marks breast cancer awareness month. This is the month that was chosen to highlight the importance of getting routine mammograms and raise awareness about breast cancer.
Due to the pandemic, there has been a drop in going to get preventative screenings completed. This can have serious implications for your health and possible long-term prognosis. For both women with and without a disability, it’s equally important to stay current with mammogram screenings. Mammograms are used by doctors to find early signs of breast cancer. It’s very important to get a mammogram on a regular basis. The first experience of getting a mammogram may seem scary to some but once you have gone through the process, you may see it as an empowering step you have taken to care of yourself.
For people with disabilities, there are many concerns we need to be able to discuss openly with our health professionals. Some of these topics, such as breast cancer screenings may seem uncomfortable or taboo to talk about but need to be addressed. Make sure you have a healthcare provider you feel comfortable talking to about sensitive issues. They are there to help you take the best care possible of yourself. Make sure you are open with them about your medical history. If you don’t feel like you can openly discuss your medical issues, it may be time to find a new provider.
Preventative screenings are one way for all women to be proactive when it comes to health. Doctors will tell you to complete self-checks even before it’s time for your mammogram. Self-checks may be difficult to do if you have a disability but, it’s important to do the best you can to complete them. It’s also important for you to take note of any new moles or markings you may notice in between appointments and screenings They may just be your body changing as you age but, it’s always important to be familiar with things and get a doctor to look at them just to be sure it’s nothing potentially dangerous to your health.
When you make an appointment, you can let the person taking your information know you will need assistance during the exam. Be sure to follow the pre appointment instructions you are given to be prepared properly on the day of the appointment. Once at the appointment, you can let the technician know how they can best assist you so they can get an accurate test done.
When your primary care doctor receives the results, they will notify you of their preferred method they use to communicate the results to their patients. Some doctors will require you to make an appointment for an office visit to talk with you about the results. Because of the pandemic, some doctors may convey the results to you through a telehealth visit.
Mammograms are one of the easiest things you can do to help take care of yourself. Finding breast cancer early helps you have a higher chance of winning the battle against this terrible disease. Don’t be afraid about asking for help during your mammogram or talking to your doctor about questions you might have when going to get a mammogram.
Speaking up to get the preventative care you need has many benefits. You can help the doctors become more informed on the health needs of people with disabilities. It will also help you advocate for the care you need. The effort you make now can help save your life.
DISCLAIMER TO READER: The content of this post is for informational or educational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not a doctor or mental health professional. My blog is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on my site.