You ask, we answer. For breast cancer awareness month, we’ve tied up with the awesome folks at 10KSA in order to get the facts straight.
10KSA Ambassador and medical expert, Dr. Wafa AlKhayal is graciously sharing her knowledge with us. Don’t bet your life on hearsay, know what Breast Cancer means to you:
This is why it is important to be ‘breast aware’ starting in your twenties by:
- Practicing monthly self-breast exam
- Clinical breast exam by a physician every 1-3 yrs for women up to 39 yrs of age
However, if a woman has a family history of breast cancer such as her mother or sister then she is termed as ‘high-risk’ and she should see a specialist for earlier screening than the recommended 40 yrs of age.
Mammograms use the lowest amount of x-ray radiation and scientific data has not shown that repeated mammograms cause breast cancer.
Angelina Jolie is a special case, she had a very strong family history of ovarian and breast cancer, with that history and genetic counseling, she underwent genetic testing. Therefore, if a woman has a strong family history she should seek out a breast specialist and discuss her options.
Wafa Alkhayal, MD
Assistant Professor of Surgery
Consultant Breast and Endocrine Surgery
Wafa Alkhayal, received her Saudi and Arab board degree in General Surgery and obtained her fellowship in breast and endocrine surgery from the United States. She has been an active member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons since 2009. She is a Consultant Breast and Endocrine Surgeon, who manages a wide variety of breast cancer in King Faisal Specialist hospital. She is also an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the College of Medicine, in Princess Noura University. She is active in initiating various research projects looking at health and behavior and participates in various public outreach activities.
