Hilary Jones MBE is a GP, medical writer and Good Morning Britain’s resident medic
NERVOUS ABOUT MY MAMMOGRAM
Irecently turned 50 and was invited to have my first mammogram. I know I need to go but am worried about what it entails – or worse, what they might find. How can I put my mind at rest before I go?
DR HILARY SAYS:
Mammograms are a very useful addition to regular selfexamination to look for any abnormalities in the breast tissue, including breast lumps. They are designed to help protect women from a late diagnosis of breast cancer, which goes handin-hand with late treatment and less than optimal outcomes. Mammograms can identify abnormal areas in the breast tissue even when you can’t feel them yourself.
It’s important to remember the vast majority of screening tests results are normal, which in itself is highly reassuring. Nine out of 10 lumps are benign, but when something untoward is found your mammogram can save your life. They do not take long and are no more than mildly uncomfortable at the time. I’d recommend you book yours now.
SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT MY LUMP?
When looking in the mirror recently, I realised I have a small – but visible – lump on the side of my jaw. At first I thought it was a swollen gland, but now I’m wondering if it’s my thyroid – or something else altogether. I’m currently waiting for an appointment, bu
