Once again this year Ann and I road tripped with several friends and family to Moncton for our second Digital Infrared
Imaging (DDI) breast scan, clinically referred to as thermography. Perhaps you remember that our reports
from our scans last year were varied with some of us scoring TH-1 (normal,
healthy breast tissue) all the way to TH-4 (abnormal cell activity). Although thermography is not considered a
diagnostic tool for determining breast cancer, it does alert us to unusual changes
in our breast tissue. Naturally, the
higher the score, the higher the risk of cancer being present or developing
over time. Armed with this information, our
doctor can now schedule tests to hone in on any negatively affected area, and
determine a plan of action.
Thermography is used to monitor the
function of breast tissue, detecting breast tissue changes five to eight years
before the development of a mass large enough to be seen with mammography or
ultrasound, or be felt in an examination.
These facts are deemed accurate by health professionals in both Canada
and the US, but to date this test is only available in the Maritimes through
private clinics.
An infrared breast scan is painless, and
provides women with another means of fighting breast cancer. Consider the benefits derived from early
diagnosis, and perhaps next year you will decide to join us. If enough Saint John women are interested, it
is likely a local venue will be provided.
We will keep you posted.
For more information on thermography, and a description of the examination process visit our post from last year: New (to Us) Breast Screening Method
Ann and Tammy
real women. real bras. real beauty. ©2012, The Girls Bra Shop Inc.
