Mammograms may not be the best way to screen for breast cancer. The National Cancer Institute recommends a mammogram for women age 40 to 74 every one to two years. There is no benefit for women under age 40. Mammograms are criticized for having high false-negative results and missing up to 20% of breast cancers. By the time a mammogram finds a tumor, it may have been growing for 5 years. Mammograms often have false-positive results, especially in younger women, those with previous breast biopsies, and women with a family history of breast cancer. Fortunately, there are other screening tools that may provide the first signal that a problem is developing.
Have you heard of breast thermography? It was first used as a screening tool for breast cancer in 1956. It creates a map of temperature patterns in the breast called a Thermogram which is analyzed by a Board Certified Thermologist. This imaging can identify breast cancer up to 8 years before mammography and may increase breast cancer survival rates by 61%. Breast Thermography is ideal for any woman regardless of age. There is no radiation or compression of the breast tissue, both which have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Have you heard of the AMAS (anti-malignin antibody in serum) Test? The AMAS test measures blood levels of an antibody that is elevated during active cancer regardless of the type of malignancy. It can be used to detect most solid tumors and hematologic cancers. Clinical studies indicate that the accuracy of this test is between 95-99%. The test detects an antibody that can be present months to years before other evidence of cancer is found. It should be considered for anyone with a family history of cancer, anyone concerned about recurrence, or anyone with uncertain clinical symptoms or imaging studies.
Have you heard of a test to monitor estrogen metabolism? Most women do not realize that they have “good” and “bad” estrogen in their bodies. Many women are unable to process estrogen effectively which puts them at an increased risk for breast cancer. A simple blood test can provide information about this. It is important that women find a health care practitioner who can screen for and correct this problem.
Have you heard of Parabens or Phthalates? Parabens are mold inhibitors that are added to personal care products. Phthalates are chemicals found in plastics and products with fragrance. Exposure to these chemicals, which are disguised under many different names, can contribute to breast cancer. Some countries have banned these chemicals from use in personal care products. There is a blood test to see whether or not the body has been burdened by these toxicants.
Seven years ago, despite being a Nurse Practitioner, I had not heard of any of this information either. At that time, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, which may have been prevented or detected earlier if I had known more about these topics. This is why I have dedicated my current practice to educating people about these matters. If you would like to discuss this information, please call, Gretchen Fleischmann, FNP-BC, at the Natural Wellness & Pain Relief Centers of Michigan. Our number is 586-727-7500.
