ROANOKE, Va. – A local woman’s diligence in performing self-exams led to a breast cancer diagnosis despite 15 prior clear mammograms, highlighting the importance of breast awareness for early detection.
For years, susan firebaugh underwent regular mammogram screenings – a total of 15 – all of which returned normal results. Though, she noticed a subtle change in her body and, trusting her instincts, contacted her doctor. Further inquiry revealed she had breast cancer.
“Be very aware of your body, of any changes in your body internally or externally.Just know little differences in how you feel,” Firebaugh advised other women.
Firebaugh underwent chemotherapy and recently completed successful reconstruction surgery. During chemotherapy, she experimented with methods to mitigate side effects, including cold capping to preserve her hair and cold mittens and socks to prevent neuropathy, though she found the latter made treatment days more stressful due to the discomfort.
sarah Samples, a nurse practitioner at Carilion Clinic’s breast surgery office, emphasizes that while mammograms are crucial, self-awareness is equally important. “Knowing your risk can help getting the appropriate screenings and imaging in the appropriate intervals so that anything you might develop, we catch early,” Samples said.
Samples recommends women begin practicing breast awareness at age 25, familiarizing themselves with their bodies, performing self-exams, and undergoing risk assessments with their primary care physician or OBGYN. Doctors will assess personal and family health history to determine appropriate screening schedules. Annual mammograms are typically recommended for average-risk women starting at age 40, but higher-risk individuals may require more frequent screenings.
“Breast cancer it can largely be sometimes just a simple surgery and maybe a pill for a few years if we catch it early,” Samples explained.
Beyond screenings, Samples stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle, remaining smoke-free, and maintaining a healthy weight as preventative measures.