Mammograms— Proactive Health Screening

January 7, 2025 / Tobiloba

Mammograms—A Proactive Health Screening

Ah, January. That fresh, sparkly month where we’re all starting with the big, lofty goals. You know, the one who drinks eight glasses of water, journals every morning, and goes for runs at 5 a.m. We set our intentions, light our candles, starts echoing “New Year, New Me”, and promise ourselves, This is my year! But in the middle of all that manifesting, how often do we think about our health?

I’m not talking about just drinking green juice or attempting that yoga headstand you saw on TikTok (we see you, Ekaette). I mean the serious stuff—like taking charge of your health with proactive screenings—because if there’s one goal that matters, it’s prioritizing your health and being your own advocate.

Now, I know the word “screening” sounds boring and a little scary, but stick with me. Today, we’re talking about mammograms. Yes, the breast detectives themselves. Let’s get into why you need to pick up your phone, call your doctor, and schedule one ASAP.

First of All, What Even Is a Mammogram?

Let’s break it down: a mammogram is basically an X-ray for your breasts. Sounds simple, right? But don’t let the simplicity fool you—this tiny, unassuming scan has saved millions of lives. It’s the MVP of breast cancer detection, spotting issues way before you feel a lump or notice anything unusual. Think of it as your breast’s personal bodyguard, catching trouble before it even steps in the club.

And no, mammograms are not just for your mom or your grandma. Women over the age of 40 are recommended to get them regularly, and if you have a family history of breast cancer, you might need to start even earlier. This is not the time to say, It’s not my portion. Being proactive doesn’t mean you’re inviting bad vibes; it means you’re taking charge of your health like the boss you are.

But Why Should I Care?

Great question, bestie. Let’s talk numbers. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, though, it affects men too, and it doesn’t care if you’re busy, young, or think “it can never happen to me.”. In Nigeria alone, it accounts for about 22.7% of cancer cases. And while survival rates are improving thanks to early detection, the truth is, too many people are still being diagnosed at late stages.

Here’s the tea: breast cancer caught early has a 99% five-year survival rate. But when it’s caught late, that number drops drastically. A mammogram can catch cancer up to three years before it’s big enough to feel. THREE YEARS. Imagine all the weddings, vacations, and gist sessions you could save yourself for by simply getting screened.

Okay, But Aren’t Mammograms Painful?

Yes, a mammogram involves a little squeezing. Your breast will be gently pressed between two plates to get a clear image. Is it uncomfortable? Sure, for a few seconds. Is it unbearable? Not at all. Plus, let’s be real: if you can survive the pain of removing a tight wig after a long day or stepping on a Lego barefoot, you can handle this.

And remember, it’s just a few seconds of discomfort for a lifetime of peace of mind. If Beyoncé can stand in heels for three hours, you can handle a mammogram. Period.

When Should I Start?

The rule of thumb is this: if you’re 40 or older, it’s time to start getting screened yearly. If breast cancer runs in your family, talk to your doctor about starting earlier—maybe even in your 30s. And if you’re younger than that, don’t feel left out. You should still be doing monthly self-breast exams and keeping an eye out for anything unusual. Knowledge is power.

Let’s Talk About Access

Now, I hear some of you saying, This is great and all, but where am I supposed to get a mammogram? Fair point. Access to health screenings isn’t always as easy as it should be. But the good news is, more organizations and hospitals are stepping up to make screenings available and affordable. Many cities have breast cancer awareness programs offering free or subsidized mammograms. A quick Google search or a chat with your local health center can point you in the right direction.

And if you’re worried about the cost, remember: your health is an investment. You wouldn’t think twice about spending money on a cute wig or the latest iPhone, so why not prioritize your health the same way?

What Happens After the Mammogram?

If your results come back normal, fantastic! You’ll still need to go for regular screenings, but you can breathe easy knowing you’re on top of things. If the results show something unusual, don’t panic. Most of the time, it’s not cancer, but your doctor will guide you on the next steps, whether it’s another scan or a biopsy. The key is to stay calm and trust the process.

The Bottom Line: Your Health, Your Power

Here’s the thing: no one is going to care about your health as much as you do. Not your partner, not your friends, not your favorite YouTuber. It’s up to you to take charge. And while January is all about setting goals, let’s make one of them the goal to live. Not just exist, but really live—healthy, happy, and strong.

So, this is your sign. Book that mammogram. Remind your parents, your families, and your friends to book theirs too. Breast health is everyone’s business, and it’s time we treated it like the priority it is.

Go forth and be the proactive. Your breasts—and your future self—will thank you.