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• Q: How often should I get a screening mammogram?
Angelia Andrade, Imaging Manager, Maui Memorial Medical Center: Screening mammograms play a crucial role in the early detection of breast cancer. Catching cancer early, often before symptoms appear, means that it is more treatable. This may mean that less invasive treatment options can be used, and that treatment will be more effective, reducing the risk of death.
For women with average breast cancer risk, the American Cancer Society recommends that you start getting annual screening mammograms sometime between ages 40 and 44.
After that, women between 45 and 54 should get a yearly mammogram. Women ages 55 and older can choose to continue with yearly screening, or they have the option to go every other year. This should continue as long as the person is in good health and expects to live at least 10 more years.
Guidelines are different for women at higher risk. This includes people with a family history of breast cancer, who have certain gene mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, or who had radiation therapy to the chest area when they were between ages 10 and 30. Screening guidelines for women at higher risk of breast cancer include getting a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, starting at age 30.
It's important to note that doing a breast self-exam or getting a physical breast exam from a health professional, is not a substitute for yearly screening. There is very little evidence that these kinds of physical exams are effective at detecting cancer early, compared to a mammogram.
That said, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel, and to call your doctor right away if you notice any changes. If doing a regular self-exam makes you feel more comfortable and familiar with the normal condition of your breasts, it's OK to keep doing them in addition to getting your yearly mammogram.
MMMC's Imaging Department provides state-of-the-art mammogram services with the most advanced equipment on the island, including high-resolution 3D mammography. Call (808) 243-3012 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
• Q: How can I cope with my overwhelming emotions after the wildfire disaster?
Dr. Fatima M. Imara, Behavioral Health, Pacific Permanente Group: Almost everyone who lives through a tragedy experiences emotional distress, so you're not alone.
But different people respond differently. It's common to have intense feelings like grief, anger or anxiety. Some people replay memories of the event or find that certain sounds or smells trigger a strong reaction. Others can become irritable and have more conflicts with family or co-workers. You may notice changes in how much you eat or sleep. And some people experience physical symptoms of stress, like headaches or stomachaches.
The most important thing you can do in the immediate aftermath of tragedy is to give yourself time. Know that most people eventually recover from tragedy and can get back to functioning normally. Acknowledge that this will be a challenging period and be patient with yourself.
While you're recovering, reach out to your loved ones for support. It can be comforting to talk with family and friends about your feelings or to connect with other survivors who understand what you're going through. Journaling about your experience or expressing your emotions through art can also help release feelings.
During this period, practice self-care and care for your body with healthy habits. Try to get consistent sleep; eat regular, balanced meals; and move your body with gentle exercise. When you feel better physically, it can help you feel better mentally. You can also try to manage or ease some of your stress with relaxation techniques, like gentle yoga, meditation or mindful breathing.
Reestablish daily routines to give yourself a sense of normalcy, and postpone making major life decisions, like changing careers or leaving a relationship, as these can compound your stress during recovery.
Finally, if your emotional distress doesn't go away over time or gets worse, or if you find yourself turning to unhealthy coping habits like alcohol or drugs, seek professional support. Your doctor or mental health provider can help you get relief.
* Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana'i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise.