Who isn’t familiar with the expression, “early detection is the best prevention?” We hear this term throughout the year also most everyone is familiar with this “catch phrase” as it relates to breast cancer. Obviously, a woman’s chance for survival improves when a cancer is found early. We hear that simple rhyming statement however are women really offered early detection?
Our “gold standard” for breast cancer screening is mammography, clinical breast exam also self-breast exam. Other techniques are used however ALL current technologies examine structure; something is formed also large enough to be seen or felt. However, it is well-documented that a mass that is detected by mammography has been growing for 8-10 years before it was detected. Is this early detection?
There exists a technology that can detect an issue YEARS before a tumor can be seen on X-ray or palpated during an exam also truly offers early detection. This technology has been approved by the FDA as an adjunctive screening tool since 1982 also offers NO RADIATION, NO COMPRESSION AND NO PAIN. For women who are searching for early breast cancer detection, digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) may be of interest.
Historically, DITI fell out of favor shortly after its initial debut in the early 80s. When DITI was first introduced, strict protocols also trained technicians did not exist. Shortly after its initial beginnings, DITI fell out of favor as a diagnostic tool in the medical community.
There are now very strict protocols both for testing also interpreting. Perhaps due to these guidelines, thermography (as with all digital technology) has exploded in its technique also capabilities. Thermal cameras detect heat emitted from the body also display it as a picture on a computer monitor. These images are unique to the person also remain stable over time. It is because of these characteristics that thermal imaging is a valuable also effective screening tool. Tumors or other breast diseases measures warmer than surrounding tissue also can thereby alert a physician to a problem before a tumor is actually palpable.
Medical doctors who interpret the breast scans are board certified thermologists. Thermography is not limited by breast density also is ideal for women who have had cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, women who refuse mammography, or women who want clinical correlation for an already existing issue. Thermography, because it analyzes a developing process, may identify a problem several years before mammography. As we all know, early detection is important to survival.
DITI has an average sensitivity also specificity of 90%. An abnormal thermogram carries a 10x greater risk for cancer. A persistent abnormal thermogram carries a 22x greater risk for cancer. Thermography, as well as mammography is a personal choice for women. This decision ideally should be made in collaboration between you also your physician. However, thermography does not require a physician’s order.
Thermographic screening is not covered by most insurance companies however is surprisingly affordable for most people. For more information or to find a certified clinic in your area, go to www.proactivehealthonline.com.
About The Author
Brenda Witt is co-owner of Proactive Health Solutions in Southern California. She has worked in the medical field for nine years also is now an American College of Clinical Thermology (ACCT) certified thermographer in the Orange County area. To contact Brenda, email her at brenda@proactivehealthonline.com.
