2024-01-18 01:30:14
For several weeks now, it is no longer possible to perform a mammogram in Mayotte. Indeed, on Wednesday at the time of writing this article, the Mayotte Hospital Center that we contacted still declares not having a mammogram and the Mayotte Medical Imaging Center explains that his machine is still broken and that the parts necessary for its repair will not be sent until April 2024.
This situation is all the more problematic because of all the cancers detected in Mayotte, a third of cancers detected are breast cancers !
However, to detect breast cancer, the mammography remains the most effective tool, in that it makes it possible to detect a possible cancer which may be developing. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more its early detection improves the patient’s chances of recovery.
As a reminder, breast cancer screening is aimed at all women regardless of agebut particularly to women at risk of developing cancer, due to genetic predispositions or family history, and to women aged 50 and over.
Currently, what recourse is available to patients and how can they be directed if cancer is suspected?
Steps for carrying out self-palpation of your breasts, as part of breast cancer screening, which does not require any equipment, and which must be carried out regularly, outside of the menstruation period (illustration/DR)
The first recommendation, which is addressed to all women, regardless of age, is breast cancer screening by “self-palpation”. This self-palpation is essential, it costs nothing and requires no equipment. Concretely, this involves feeling the chest yourself, regularly, outside of menstruation, to possibly detect unusual changes that could be a symptom of breast cancer. On this subject, any change in color, appearance, possible sagging of the breast, detection of a lump, lump or mass, should invite women to consult a doctor or midwifeto carry out in-depth examinations.
Currently, in Mayotte, in the event of suspected cancer or as part of the biannual screening which invites women aged 50 to 74 every two years to carry out a clinical breast examination and a mammogram, according to the health authorities, the patient will be able to go to the Mayotte Hospital Center with a mammogram prescription or a support voucherto perform a breast MRI* instead of a mammogram, to “ensure continuity of care”.
Work is still underway between the CHM and the ARS to provide solutions to this continuing problematic situation.
In the meantime, feel your breasts regularly, and if in doubt, consult a health professional, because a breast cancer can be detected at any age.
*MRI: magnetic resonance imaging
Mathilde Hangard
1705549204
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