My sister’s passing was a wake-up call that reshaped my perspective on health advocacy. She lost her battle with breast cancer at just 52, following a series of misleading results from her screenings.
Her journey began at age 15 when she started developing benign cysts in her breasts—indicators that elevated her risk for breast cancer. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and consistently receiving negative biopsy results, the threat loomed large. In her late 30s, her doctor advised regular mammograms, which she adhered to diligently. However, the benign cysts continued to appear, and her annual screenings never flagged any issues.
Four years prior to her death, she underwent her routine screening, which included a breast ultrasound to identify any irregularities. The results were clear. However, the following year, she detected a change in her breast and mentioned it to the technician, yet the mammogram returned negative again. Trusting the technician’s expertise, she didn’t press the issue. Months later, she developed a severe cough that led to a broken rib—an event that would ultimately unveil a grim diagnosis.
Convinced the rib injury was linked to the breast irregularity, she sought a second opinion at a different facility. Tragically, she was diagnosed with stage-4 breast cancer, already metastasized to her ribs and eye. The type of cancer she had was slow-growing, meaning it had likely been developing unnoticed for years. She passed away two years later.
This story is not uncommon; statistics indicate that mammograms can miss about 20% of breast cancers. Thus, it is imperative that we do not solely rely on screenings to monitor our health. Here are practical steps to become proactive health advocates.
Take Charge of Your Health
Monthly breast self-exams are essential for identifying abnormalities. Set a reminder on your phone to perform these exams regularly—they take only a few minutes but could be life-saving. Additionally, schedule clinical breast exams with a healthcare professional. If you have dense breast tissue, inquire about the possibility of a breast ultrasound, as it can provide more detailed insights.
My passion for health advocacy is deeply personal. In addition to my sister’s experience, I faced a distressing encounter with a healthcare provider regarding uterine fibroids, a condition prevalent in my family. My mother had a hysterectomy at 31, while my sister opted for a myomectomy—the removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. When I saw a new doctor for a pap smear at 31, he informed me I needed a hysterectomy without discussing any alternatives. I was devastated. After confiding in my mother and sister, I learned about the myomectomy, which led me to seek a second opinion.
The next physician confirmed the fibroids and offered me two options: leave them or undergo a myomectomy. This experience underscored the importance of advocating for our own health choices, as many doctors may overlook alternatives due to various biases.
Years later, I faced another decision regarding fibroids and chose a partial hysterectomy at nearly 40, confident in my ability to speak up for my needs. Women must prioritize their health and advocate for themselves as ardently as they do for others.
Engage with Your Healthcare Provider
Whether it involves mammograms or routine check-ups, engage with your doctor—discuss your symptoms and concerns openly. Remember, healthcare providers are human and can make errors. If you feel uncomfortable or unheard, do not hesitate to seek another opinion. Finding a doctor who aligns with your needs may take time, but it is crucial for your health.
Upon receiving a diagnosis, take the initiative to research. The Internet is rife with both valuable information and misleading content. Trustworthy resources like NHS can offer accurate health guidance, while sites like Make a Mom provide insights into fertility journeys.
Let’s prioritize our health, for our sake and our loved ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating health advocacy is vital for every woman.