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Updated 07/25/2011 08:45 AM

Smart Living: Massages, manicures and mammograms?

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Mammogram parties are becoming more popular across the United States. Hospitals are throwing them to get women in for regular breast cancer screenings.

The events are typically held in spa settings. It’s like having a baby shower in a medical room complete with snacks, games, goody bags, massages, manicures and pedicures. The overall goal is to help women overcome their fear of what is often a stressful procedure. In most party settings, the women are able to have their mammogram done before or after the festivities.

Thanks to the popularity mammogram parties, awareness about breast cancer prevention is steadily increasing. The sooner breast cancer is caught, the greater the chance of beating it.

Although these parties are known for their fun, information about breast cancer and early detection is also provided to help continue to educate women about these issues.

Before you head in for your mammogram, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• On the day of your mammogram, don’t use deodorant, lotion, cream or powder on your underarms or breasts. These could interfere with a clear mammogram.

• If your breasts get tender around the time of menstruation, schedule your mammogram for one week after your period ends.

• If you’ve had mammograms at another facility, have those mammograms available to the radiologist at your current exam. Also, bring a list of places and dates of earlier mammograms, as well as biopsies and other breast treatments.

• Before your exam, discuss any breast symptoms or problems you are having.

Source: OuachitaMedCenter.com