All women above 40 years old are encouraged to get a mammogram. Breast cancer, if detected early, can be life-saving. I had this wake-up call when one of my dearest colleagues at the clinic was diagnosed with cancer. In her case, she had a palpable lump, which she went to get it checked out.

As for myself, I do not have a lump. I do not have noticeable changes in my breast or areola either. So far, I have also not heard of any family members or close relatives having breast cancer. But there is a history of colon and renal cancer. I was offered a colonoscopy due to this, but since I am not experiencing any symptoms for now, I am putting that on hold.

Subsidised mammogram through LPPKN

I went to my nearest LPPKN centre. There, I filled up a form and paid RM5 only. I was given a choice to either do my mammogram at Pantai Hospital or Mahkota Medical Centre. In fact, I can choose my own date as well. I opted for Pantai because that’s one of the private hospitals I’ve been to, and I am familiar with the parking area.

There is no need to fast. I can have breakfast as usual. However, refrain from using deodorant, body lotion or talcum powder before the mammogram.

The mammogram service at Pantai has 2 sessions. The morning session was from 9am to 12noon. I chose to do mine on the same day. My turn was quite early, but the reporting took some time. Especially when I had to confirm my findings with an ultrasound. Everything was normal. Perhaps the breast tissue was a bit dense. Or my positioning was bad. The mammogram process did not hurt at all. The radiographer did have to manipulate my arms a bit to get a good view of a certain plane. Otherwise, the procedure was quick. I was done with the imaging in less than 20 minutes, including attire change. My breast was ‘doughed’ and ‘adjusted’ freely by the staff, but well, what has to be done must be done.

Since the mammogram and ultrasound findings are normal, I will only need to repeat the screening in the next 2 or 3 years. However, if I detect a lump on self-breast examination, I should get it checked immediately and be referred to the breast clinic.