Eight things every woman should know about their breast health The thought of having breast cancer is frightening. But, ignoring the possibility that you may develop breast cancer,or avoiding the processes to detect cancer, can be dangerous. "Preventative care is a three-step process," says Evelyn Minaya, M.D.,an OB/GYN affiliated with Riverview Medical Center," that includes an annual clinical examination with your OB/GYN, regular self examination, and your annual mammogram." So, what do women need to know about breast health? Minaya clarifies some of the biggest misconceptions. 1. If cancer doesn't run in my family, then I don't have to worry. The fact is that all women are at risk for breast cancer.Self-breast exams are important for all women,and you should get a baseline mammogram at age 35,and then annually at age 40. If there is family history of premenopausal breast cancer (in mom, sister, aunt), then start your baseline 10 years before their age of diagnosis. Comparison of the images from year to year is essential for your doctor to detect changes over time. 2. I should only rely on my doctor's visit for my breast health. If you notice any changes in your breast or feel an abnormality,always see your physician. Any discharge (especially bloody or colored) should be checked out right away.Discomfort or pain in the breast should also be investigated. 3. All mammographies hurt. Yes, having a mammogram is uncomfortable, but it varies with your tolerance for pain. Pressure is necessary to get a good image, and the flatter the better. For instance, think of a ball of clay with a seed under it. If you roll it out thin, the seed will eventually be visible as a bump. 4. Mammography is the only tool to diagnose breast cancer. Mammography is the only universally accepted screening tool to detect abnormalities, but technology such as ultrasound can complement diagnosis. In certain cases, an MRI can be used to help your physician make a better diagnosis. 5. An occasional self-breast exam in the shower is sufficient. It's important to know your body and conduct a self-breast exam monthly, regardless of your age. Your breast should be as flat as possible to feel all tissues, so lying down,with one arm over your head, is the best position for a self-exam. 6. All imaging centers are the same. The saying "practice makes perfect" is a good one to apply when choosing a location to have a mammogram.Your best bet is to select a facility that has a fellowshiptrained breast radiologist, which means that he/she has advanced training in reading mammograms and identifying potential problems. 7. All breast lumps are cancerous. First, don't jump to conclusions. Many lumps are not cancer, but instead cysts, fibroids or dense breast tissue. Second, don't delay seeing your doctor to determine what is going on. A mammogram can help identify a mass or calcification and determine the need for further investigation. 8. If I am diagnosed with cancer, I will lose my breast. This is usually not the case. A lumpectomy (removal of the lump) followed by radiation is often an option. Promptly explore all your options and make an educated decision with your physician. Learn more about breast health during Paint the Town Pink, an event that transforms Red Bank into Pink Bank- all in an effort to heighten awareness of breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment. For the second year, paint brushes are ready to turn Red Bank into Pink Bank from May 4-10.As you shop and dine with the more than 120 "Pink Partner" businesses you will find the"Little Pink Book: A Girl's Guide to Breast Health," an educational guide with information about how to do a self-breast exam and a pledge form for your annual mammogram. Remember, your breast health is in your hands. Make time for yourself. Pledge to have your annual mammogram. For more information about Riverview Medical Center and Meridian Health, please call the Meridian Health Line at (800) 560-9990 or visit www.riverviewmedicalcenter.com.