Miriam Mutebi: Why Should You Make Mammograms a Priority?

Miriam Mutebi, Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital, shared on LinkedIn:

“I know, I know—no one looks forward to mammograms (as you can tell from my ‘blue’ expression). Unfortunately, many people in Africa, across demographics, still lack access to essential screening and diagnostic mammography. The next best thing is the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended early detection strategies that include going for a clinical breast exam (where a qualified health worker examines your breast) and raising breast awareness in the population (including how to do a self-breast exam). These help pick up lumps earlier when there is no widespread screening.

Think of a mammogram as a preventive superpower! It’s a radiograph (X-ray) of the breast and helps doctors spot changes or abnormalities before they can be felt. It’s your best friend in the fight against breast cancer.

Now, why should you make it a priority?

If you’re over 40, this is your reminder to schedule that appointment!

WHO recommends screening every one to two years. It might feel a little uncomfortable for a few minutes, but consider this: that brief moment of discomfort can give you peace of mind for an entire year!

Let’s talk numbers. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), regular mammograms can reduce breast cancer mortality by up to 40% among women aged 40 to 74. In Africa, where awareness is still growing, this statistic becomes even more crucial.

Early detection is important as it can lead to less aggressive treatment and higher survival rates.

Moreover, In order to feel a lump, even in the best of hands–it needs to be a certain size before you can feel it. The rationale behind a mammogram, is, that it picks up lumps in advance; sometimes even years earlier.

Being proactive about your health is vital. It’s not just about living longer; it’s about living better! Many women can benefit from this preventive measure, yet even when available fear or misconceptions hold them back.

So, let’s break the stigma girls! Talk to your friends, and remind each other. Make it a girlfriend’s date; go for that mammogram together, and then catch a meal to celebrate your sustained health.

Remember ladies, you are your best advocate, and a mammogram is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Early detection saves lives!”

More posts featuring Miriam Mutebi on oncodaily.com

Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is the President of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and past president for Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care in Africa. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s license in order to extend breast care services to marginalized areas.