A 42-year-old patient arrived for her annual gynecologist appointment complaining of a self-detected breast lump. She had several questions about her condition and wanted to tell her doctor about a family history of breast cancer.  The doctor was in a hurry and advised her to ask the staff, but the staff was busy with other patients and told her to call them later. The patient did not call.

The gynecologist ordered a mammogram but did not include the patient’s complaint of the breast lump on the requisition. The mammogram was read as “normal,” but the report noted a “very dense stromal pattern,” which reduces the sensitivity of the study for detection of cancer.  The radiologist did not recommend an ultrasound and described the mammogram as “normal” in the report to the gynecologist. No follow-up appointment was scheduled. Several months later, the patient scheduled another appointment with the gynecologist when she noticed the breast lump had increased in size.  Subsequently, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and scheduled for surgery.

Doctors and nurses should engage patients and encourage them to take charge and be proactive about their health. Each woman should know how to do a self-check for any abnormal breast tissues. Youtube can show you how. My nurse midwife told me how to. Use the palm part of your two fingers (middle), palpate your breast checking for lumps. Examine skin for any abnormal growth, itchiness,redness and discoloration. See a doctor and not a dermatologist for breast cases or skin disorders near the breast area.

Talk to your doctors for any abnormal skin issues or body aches and pain. Get a genetic tests to show to your doctor your family history and genetic test results.

Nurses and doctors should encourage more communication and knowledge sharing to prevent any emergencies or discover health issues early.