Recognizing Breast Cancer Month

In This Issue

What's New at Guardian Nurses

Guardian Nurses Offers Expert Nutritional Counseling

Patients who struggle with their weight often have diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Often, by reducing their weight, patients can see marked improvements in their health and may be able to reduce their medications. Nurse Advocates
working with patients can now partner with registered dietitians to offer nutritional counseling.

LEHB Renews Contract
for 2 Years

Tom Lamb, Administrator for Law Enforcement Health Benefits (LEHB),
the health and welfare office for the Philadelphia Police union, recently agreed to renew Guardian Nurses' services into 2011.

"We have always valued the service that Betty's team provides our members," said Mr. Lamb, "and we wanted to continue uninterrupted."

Guardian Nurses has worked with LEHB since April 2005.

Lighter Notes

"Body Worlds 2 & The Brain" Returns

BODY WORLDS 2 & The Brain returned on Oct. 17th to Philadelphia.
The exhibit presents a broad collection of authentic human specimens with a special presentation on the brain. For tickets, go to the Franklin Institute. The show runs only for 18 weeks.

The Flame
October 2009

Recently, the daughter of a woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer told me that "I believe that my mom's survival was because she was diagnosed very early. She was always really good about getting her mammogram and thanks to that, they found it and were able to treat it successfully."

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in recognition of the value of early diagnosis, we focus on understanding mammograms, the test used to diagnose breast cancer.

If you're one of our gentlemen readers, please share this information with the women you care about.

Understanding Mammograms

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for changes that are not normal.

A mammogram allows a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam. It is used for women who have no breast complaints and for women who have breast symptoms, such as a change in the shape or size of a breast, a lump, nipple discharge, or pain. Breast changes occur in almost all women. In fact, most of these changes are not cancer and are called "benign," but only a doctor can know for sure. Breast changes can also happen monthly, due to your menstrual period.

Why should I get a mammogram?

Regular mammograms are the best tests to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to 3 years before it can be felt. When cancer is found early, many women go on to live long and healthy lives.

When should I get a mammogram?

Most women should get their first test at age 40 and then have another one every 1-2 years (recommended by the National Cancer Institute). If you have a family history of breast cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend a mammogram before that age.

What happens if my mammogram is abnormal?

Do not panic. An abnormal result does not always mean that there is cancer. But additional testing and exams will need to be done. You may also be referred to a breast specialist or a surgeon. This does not mean you have cancer or need surgery. These doctors are experts in diagnosing breast problems.

When will I get the results of my mammogram?

Usually the results are available within a few weeks, although it could depend on the facility. A radiologist reads the test and then reports the results. Contact your healthcare provider or the testing facility if you do not receive a report of your results within 30 days.

Tips for getting a mammogram:

Try not to have your test the week before you get your period or during your period. Your breasts may be tender or swollen and not only will the study hurt much more (trust us), it may affect the images, too.
On the day of your test, do not wear deodorant, perfume or powder. These products can show up as white spots on the mammogram.
Consider your outfit. You will need to undress from your waist up for the test so choose an outfit that is comfortable and easy to change into.

By all means, stay on top of your breast health by not only getting regular mammograms, but by performing monthly breast self-exams. And talk openly with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you have.

For more information about mammograms, visit the National Cancer Institute's webpage.

Getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam (an exam done by a health care provider) on a regular basis are the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early.

If you or someone you know have been diagnosed with breast cancer and need guidance, our team of nurse advocates is happy to help. We're nurses, it's what we do.

Best wishes for good health,

Betty Long

Betty Long, RN, MHA
President and Founder
Guardian Nurses Healthcare Advocates, Inc.

	Guardian Nurses Healthcare Advocates, Inc. PO Box 224, Flourtown, PA 19031 215.836.0260 888-836-0260 Visit our website www.guardiannurses.com email feedback@guardiannurses.com