36A and the Importance of Breast Health Monitoring
Breast cancer is a concerning health condition that affects millions of women worldwide. In Canada alone, it is estimated that approximately 26, 900 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2021, making it the most common type of cancer among women. To combat this significant health issue, early detection through breast health monitoring is crucial. With the help of advancements in medical imaging, such as Digital Mammography, doctors can detect small tumors that might not be felt during a physical exam. Hence, women are advised to undergo regular breast health monitoring, such as mammography, ultrasound, or breast MRI.
One aspect of breast health monitoring that most women are unaware of is the density of their breasts. Breast density refers to the amount of glandular tissue and connective tissue present in the breast. A woman’s breasts are considered dense if they have more glandular and connective tissue than fatty tissue. Having dense breasts can make it harder to detect abnormal growth in the breast using mammography, which is currently the most effective screening tool for breast cancer. Women with dense breasts are more likely to develop breast cancer, hence the need to be vigilant in monitoring their breast health.
What is 36A?
As mentioned, breast density is an important aspect of breast health monitoring. Breast density is measured using a Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) scoring system. This scoring system is based on four categories, which range from mostly fatty (BI-RADS A) to extremely dense (BI-RADS D). Hence, breast density is often referred to as BI-RADS density category, and a woman’s breast can be classified from level A to level D.
For instance, 36A refers to a woman whose breast density falls under category A. This means that a woman’s breasts are made up mostly of fat and have less than 25% glandular and connective tissue. Women with BI-RADS category A are not only at a lower risk of developing breast cancer, but their breast cancer is often detected easily when screening is done. Hence, there is no need for more aggressive or frequent breast cancer screening, such as MRI.
When is 36A Not Enough?
While women with BI-RADS category A are at a lower risk of developing breast cancer, it is crucial to note that breast density is not the only risk factor for breast cancer. Other risk factors such as age, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and reproductive factors can also contribute to the development of breast cancer.
Hence, even if you have BI-RADS category A, you still need to undergo regular breast cancer screening, such as mammography, which is recommended annually for women aged 50 to 74 in Canada. If you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, your doctor may recommend earlier and more frequent screening.
Remember that these screening tests can help detect breast cancer in the early stages, leading to better outcomes and potentially saving your life. Early detection through regular breast health monitoring is key to managing and treating breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place every October, worldwide, with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening and early detection. The campaign also seeks to educate people on the various risk factors associated with breast cancer, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity for people to show support for breast cancer patients, survivors and raise funds for research to find a cure.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, and early detection through regular breast health monitoring is crucial. Breast density is an essential aspect of breast health monitoring, with BI-RADS category A indicating a lower risk of developing breast cancer. However, it is crucial to note that breast density is not the only risk factor, and regular breast cancer screening is recommended for all women, regardless of their breast density category.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity for people to increase awareness of breast cancer, and the need for regular breast health monitoring by healthcare professionals. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the various resources available to them, such as cancer clinics, breast cancer screening programs, and breast health-related organizations, to educate themselves about breast health monitoring and how to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.
Keywords: 36A, breast health monitoring, BI-RADS, mammography, breast cancer screening, breast density, Breast Cancer Awareness Month.