Take Pressure out of Mammograms: Make It Fun!

Here's a way to make a mammogram less scary and more fun.

Suny Downstate at Long Island College Hospital is holding a great event on Oct. 15, .

Head to City Chemist on Montague Street to get in on the action. There will be free mammograms, nutrition advice and Q&A sessions with doctors, make-over's, body treatments and self exam demonstrations. Four time Golden Glove Champion winner Keisher "Fire" McLeod-Wells will be on hand selling her jewelry, with 10 percent of sales going toward LICH's Cancer Patient Services Fund.

"Finding breast cancer early significantly improves a woman's chances," said Alicja Goracy, MD, Director of Breast Imaging Services at Downstate Long Island College Hospital. "The best way to accomplish this is by conducting breast self-examinations, having a mammogram and having your doctor do a clinical breast exam."

Health centers across the nation are offering “mammogram parties” to encourage women to have their breasts checked for abnormalities that could signal cancer.

“Anything that encourages women to get screening tests is a great idea,” said Susan Brown, a director of health education with the Susan G. Komen foundation.

National Mammography Day is October 21. The date serves as a reminder to schedule a mammogram with a friend, sister, coworker or group of women. Test your knowledge of mammograms with this quiz.

Tips for when you go from the American Cancer Society:

• Everyone must have doctor’s order for a mammogram and money to pay or proof of insurance. Some places offering freebies have age restrictions (40 plus).
• Bring any past scans or dates and provider phone numbers for previous mammograms, biopsies, etc.
• Don’t wear deodorant, lotion, cream or powder as these things could interfere with a clear mammogram.
• The best time to go is one week after menstrual cycle ends – especially for women with tender breasts.