Researchers Stress Mammograms' Lifesaving Value

For more than two decades, October has been National Breast Cancer Awareness month. The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) stresses the importance of early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Bethesda, MD (PRWEB) October 16, 2006 -- For more than two decades, October has been National Breast Cancer Awareness month. The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) stresses the importance of early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. This month is filled with a variety of educational campaigns, benefit races and the display of pink ribbons, all in the support of breast cancer awareness.

One of the most vital tools in the fight against breast cancer is the mammogram. It is currently the best and most commonly used tool to detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, usually even before a lump can even be felt. With an estimated 214,000 new cases of breast cancer in American this year, mammograms and other early detection methods such as clinical breast exams and monthly breast self-exams (BSE) can be lifesaving practices. NFCR recommends that women 40 years of age and older should get a mammogram every one to two years.

Since the mammogram’s invention in the 1920’s, it has experienced considerable modifications in the past 30 years. Although there are multiple benefits of mammograms, some test results can be incorrect. Due to this, many improvements are being made in mammography with emerging technologies that provide new methods for viewing and interpreting the images. Researchers highlight two new methods, digital mammography, in which images are stored on a computer instead of an x-ray film and computer-aided detection, in which images are processed by a computer that is programmed to recognize specific tumor-related images.

This month is a time to celebrate the over two million breast cancer survivors alive in America today and remember those who have lost their battle against this disease. NFCR encourages you to embrace the breast cancer awareness efforts and become more knowledgeable about breast cancer and how early detection can help save lives.

About NFCR
Since its founding in 1973, the National Foundation for Cancer Research has spent more than $230 million funding basic science cancer research and education focused on understanding how and why cells become cancerous. This worldwide "laboratory without walls" assembles the intellectual power to achieve one of medicine's greatest goals: a cure for cancer. NFCR is Research for a Cure. For more information, visit www.NFCR.org or call (800) 321-CURE.

Media Contact:    Audra Wait
National Foundation for Cancer Research
(615) 244-8055 ex. 402

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