Early breast cancer detection methods should be a part of every woman’s life. But, while trying to protect your health, don’t inadvertently put yourself if harm’s way. After becoming concerned with the amount of radiation that women are being exposed to through their recommended yearly mammogram, Monica Gavin, M.D., set out to provide an alternate way to spot cancerous cells.
Dr. Gavin is now pleased to report that at the Azani Medical Spa, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, women can come in for breast thermography. Even though the procedure has been around for nearly 30 years, many women still don’t know that this option exists because it has not been advocated as mammograms have. In her effort to provide women with the best protection possible, Dr. Gavin explains what breast thermography is and why you should consider it for yourself.
What is Breast Thermography? Breast thermography is marketed as a radiation-free, non-invasive, FDA approved procedure. Not only does it have the ability to detect cancerous growths, but it also detects early, potentially reversible physiological changes in the body that are associated with the later development of breast cancer.
How Does it Work? The breast thermography procedure picks up infrared emissions from the surface of the skin and displays the results in detailed temperature patterns on a computer screen. Heat is a major component in this test because as cancer cells multiply they cause blood to circulate more in that area. And more blood circulation results in more heat being emitted from the skin. Research over the past four decades has proven a consistent relationship between abnormally high breast tissue temperature and the presence of cancer in that area.
What Should You Do to Prepare? In the days leading to your appointment, limit your exposure to the sun because sunburn may affect your results. It also recommended that you do not apply any creams, lotions or powders anywhere on your body on the day of the procedure. You should also not shave, use deodorant or drink anything very hot or very cold for at least a half an hour prior to your appointment. Smokers are also asked not to smoke for at least two hours prior to your appointment. While all of the restrictions may not directly effect your results, they should be taken for preventative measures.
What Can You Expect During the Process? Once you arrive for your breast thermography appointment, you will be escorted to a temperature-controlled room. You will sit in this room, without moving, for about 10 minutes until you entire body has adjusted properly to the 68- to 70-degree room temperature. Once ready, the machine will capture the first set of images. After the first set has been taken, you will hold an ice pack between your hands for just one minute, after which a second round of images will be taken. The entire process should last only 30 minutes.
Does it Hurt Like a Mammogram Does? No, another remarkable thing about breast thermography is that you will experience no pain or discomfort. Your breasts will not be touched at all.
What Are The Risks? No risks are associated with breast thermography. Since the procedure only uses the heat coming naturally from your body, you don’t have to worry about being exposed to harmful radiation.
Will It Be Covered By Insurance? Some insurance plans do cover the cost of a breast thermography, and you will need to ask your provider about their particular policy. Without insurance, the study is generally priced at around $350.
Can Breast Thermography Always Detect Between a Tumor and a Cyst? Unfortunately, while breast thermography may be the best way to detect growths, there is still no perfected technique. In some cases, after having reviewed your results, the specialists may suggest that you use breast thermography in conjunction with a mammogram to get the best results possible. This may trigger a response of, “If I am going to get a mammogram anyway, then why not get it done in the first place?” Well, the simple answer is this: If you use breast thermography for 10 years without ever having an alarming result, and then after your 11th exam, it is suggested that you get a mammogram for a clearer view of the area, you have still provided yourself with 10 years of preventive measures and kept yourself from radiation exposure for a decade. Each time you avoid radiation exposure, you’re lowering your risk of breast cancer.
Dr. Gavin advises that your best plan of action against breast cancer is regular breast self-exams, thermography, and then follow-up studies with mammograms if needed.
How is Thermography Used for Prevention? Mammograms are often talked about as a way to prevent cancer. But if a cancerous tumor appears on a mammogram, then the cancer is already present, and there is no preventing it. The only thing you can prevent at that point is the worsening of your condition. With breast thermography, however, there is the distinction of actually preventing cancer. It can detect signs of the disease up to 10 years before a cancerous tumor is found by a mammogram. The abnormality that the thermography detects, depending on its severity, may be your body’s warning sign that you are predisposed to cancer. If you come in for breast thermography and find that you have precancerous cells, the abnormalities are correctable through lifestyle and nutritional changes. Breast thermography can also be an effective way to observe the progress of treatments or to monitor breast health over time.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
