Your opinions on thermography.....

[moosmom]

Carole,

I've never heard of it. I know that when they suspect a lump or mass in the U.S. the doctor usually orders an ultrasound. Thermography, go figure. Let me know what you find out. I'm glad you're keeping on top of it.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I've never heard of this either. My mom is a breast cancer survivor and her's wasn't even found on her mammograms. Her doctor found a lump under her arm pit when she was having a physical. I've been having yearly mamograms since I was about 38 years old now and I hate how painful they are. I have digital mammograms taken and they've been doing these for several years now.

[carole]

Yes well i never had heard of it either, it is controversial though, so i guess i am in two minds about it, Donna check out the website i posted if you want to, it tells you all you need to know.

If they did find something you would still need to have a mammogram as it does not show the size of the tumor i believe, and then ultrasound and the usual biopsy etc, i am due for mine next month, so just looking into this, it is slightly more expensive about 125 for mammogram and 160 for thermograph or if out of town which i am 190 so i guess that would come into my decision as well.

I must admit i am a little nervous about the idea of change, especially if it is controversial and the medical sector are not promoting it.

[Medusa]

I've not heard of it either. That's one of the things I like most about PT; you learn something new nearly every day. I'm glad that you're diligent w/the mammograms, etc., Carole, especially w/your family history. Please keep us updated.

[Karen]

I have not heard it recommended, and know several breast cancer survivors offline, as well as on Pet Talk. If they would have to do a mammogram anyway, I don't really see the point. As a female, my doctor makes sure I get an annual mammogram now that I am over age 39, and she has never mentioned thermography, which I believe she would if it was better at detection. One good thing about living where we do is that we have quite literally some of the best medical facilities in the world right nearby.

[carole]

Karen you only need a mammogram if the thermography shows there is a problem otherwise you do not, if you read the website you will see the US FDA has approved it for breast screening, i am suprised that no-one in the states has heard of it, from my understanding that is where it all began, and the registered nurse who is the technician who does the procedure had to go to the states to complete her training, it costs the doctor about 100 thousand dollars to set it up, so i guess that is why many don't, some how i think i will be sticking to the old method,even though it can be a tad painful at times,at least it is proven, i just like the aspect that the thermography has no radiation, and is pain free as well.

[Karen]

Okay - Carole, if you remember, remind in November - when I have my annual physical, I'll ask my doc about it. She'd good at random questions!