Why is Breast Cancer Screening important?
Better breast cancer detection should be every woman’s right
Breast cancer is the world’s most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women all around the world, including Egypt.
In fact, one woman dies of breast cancer every 57 minutes in Egypt. It constitutes one third of female cancer cases and more than 22,000 new cases are diagnosed each year with more than half of those being in late stages.
Early detection is the key to maximize the survival rate and avoid invasive treatments for breast cancer.
Yet, the majority of women don’t have access to adequate screening.
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Vara is here to change that. And it all begins by informing you about your options for better breast cancer screening.
What is breast cancer screening?
Breast cancer screening is the process doctors use to check a woman’s breasts for cancer — even when there are no signs or symptoms.
Although this process cannot prevent breast cancer, it can help find it early, when it’s easier to treat. And that’s critical.
Who can get breast cancer?
Any woman can get breast cancer, but your risk increases as you age. That’s why women above the age of 40 are recommended to get a mammogram every year.
However, depending upon where you live, and other factors (e.g., your family history, genetics, lifestyle, race, ethnicity, etc.) you may be at a higher or lower risk.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray image of the breast — and for most women, it is the best test available to find early signs of breast cancer.
A mammogram can reveal cancer when it’s still tiny and your chances for successful treatment are at their highest. Get screened!
What happens after you get a mammogram?
A radiologist will read your mammogram and then report the results to you. If it is normal, you should continue getting mammograms regularly (e.g., annually).
If you have an abnormal mammogram, it does not always mean you have cancer. But you will need to have additional mammograms, tests, or exams before the doctor can know for sure. You may also be referred to a breast specialist or a surgeon for further review.
Screening Mammography with Vara
We are there for you in every step of your screening journey to make you feel safe and have peace of mind. Through Vara, you can learn about breast cancer, discover the benefits of screening, book your mammogram, and ensure your screenings are handled with advanced German technology.
We connect you to our trusted radiology centers which use our state-of-the-art technology in mammograms. This technology allows to mitigate much of the human subjectivity in reading mammography results and to make breast screenings more effective, more personal, and more accessible for everyone, everywhere.
We are Vara. We won’t rest until every deadly breast cancer is detected early - for better outcomes for everyone, everywhere.
Vara Centers in Cairo
كايرو ميديكال سنتر -بجوار مستشفي ايدن -المحور المركزي - 6 اكتوبر
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Is a mammogram painful?Depending on the size and shape of your breast, it can be a bit painful during the process due to the compression of the machine. However, our assistants are trained to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
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Why is ultrasound not used in some cases in addition to the mammogram?Ultrasound is important , for example, to further examine suspicious cases. However, according to the international guidelines, ultrasound usage is not recommended for average-risk women without symptoms as the primary imaging method. Doing more ultrasounds than medically required also increases the probability of “unnecessary biopsies” for healthy women. The anxiety of a biopsy, the pain and the costs should be avoided if possible. This is why centers that collaborate with Vara are advised to utilize ultrasound according to international guidelines.
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How should I prepare for a mammogram?Timing-wise, it is best to have a mammogram in the week after your menstrual period. If you had a mammogram before and have them as a copy or CD, then please bring them with you and tell the receptionist at the check-in. Moreover, don’t use a deodorant before you go for your appointment. Some particles in the deodorant could influence the image.
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Is my insurance covering the mammogram?Please contact the Vara center directly to find out if you are eligible for partial or full insurance coverage.
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Is breast cancer genetic?Yes, in some cases it could be. Your genes determine more than your blood type and physical features. They may also determine your risk for developing certain diseases, including cancer. Approximately 6 to 8 percent of all cases of breast cancers are likely to be hereditary.
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Do I need to fast for the mammogram?There’s no need to fast before a mammogram, as it will not affect the results. Feel free to eat, drink, and take any medication.
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Can I have a post-screening consultation with a doctor?Definitely! Our health navigators who are medically trained professionals will assist you with post screening concerns and questions that you may have based on your reports and also guide you on next best steps if any are needed.