‘The most effective way of detecting breast cancer is by doing a mammogram. It can detect breast cancer up to two years before a lump can be felt.’ Dr Kavistra Udarajh
A mammogram is essentially an X-ray of the breast that helps to detect abnormalities. This is combined with an ultrasound scan.
‘We recommend that women self-examine their breasts monthly and undergo annual mammograms after 40 years of age.’ Dr Kavistra Udarajh
Look out for the following red flags:
• A lump or mass in y our breast or armpit.
• Swelling in or around your breast, collarbone, or armpit.
• Thickening or dimpling of the skin on the breast.
• Changes in the size or positioning of the breasts.
• Warmth and itching.
• Nipple changes or unusual discharge.
• Persisting pain in the breast.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
When you do feel a lump or are concerned that you may have a symptom of breast cancer, you need to be seen by a specialist. The specialist will do a thorough investigation, which includes a breast examination, radiology examination (which includes a mammogram, ultrasound and/or MRI). If a lump is present, a core needle biopsy will be conducted.
What to expect during a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can detect changes in breast tissue. It is a quick and non-invasive procedure. It is important to realise that mammograms can save lives – do not shy away from them! Not every positive mammogram means a breast cancer diagnosis, and not every breast cancer diagnosis means you need aggressive treatment.
‘Breast cancer can be overcome, provided that it is detected early enough. The earlier that it is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment and recovery.’ Dr Kavistra Udarajh
Juanita Moodley at an ultrasound machine
Women’s Wellness Centre
Mammograms will be conducted at the Women’s Wellness Centre. The Women’s Wellness Centre opened its doors at Netcare The Bay Hospital in March 2020 and forms part of Richardson Udarajh & Partners Inc. practice.
The centre specialises in female health and offers mammography, ultrasound and bone density measurement, rendered by an on-site Specialist Radiologist and well trained and qualified staff.
‘Much of our focus is on women’s health and so, the Women’s Wellness Centre was established to provide a dedicated area for ladies where they can feel comfortable and enjoy privacy.’ Dr Mark Richardson
Senographe Pristina
• State-of-the-art mammogram machine
• Utmost comfort for patients
• Accurate breast biopsy in 15 minutes
• First of its kind in KZN
• Very low radiation compared to other machines
Mammograms at the Women’s Wellness Centre are performed with a state-of-theart Senographe Pristina machine, the first in KZN.
Listed in Time Magazine as one of the 100 best inventions of 2019, the Senographe Pristina system is ergonomically designed to deliver utmost comfort to patients. It allows the patient to regulate the compression during the mammography procedure making it a much more comfortable and pain free experience for patients.
The Senographe Pristina’s diagnostic accuracy is superior to traditional digital mammography, providing the lowest radiation exposure to patients. It is able to perform exceptionally accurate breast biopsies within 15 minutes.
For more information, contact Richardson Udarajh & Partners Inc. at 035 9019900 / 9901 or email admin@rbxray.co.za