375th Medical Group hosts breast cancer seminar Published Nov. 7, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Stephenie Wade 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Every day, more than 533 men and women are diagnosed with breast cancer; to educate Team Scott, 375th Medical Group officials held an awareness seminar Oct. 30. "The key is change," said Gina Loeffelman, Chief of Saint Elizabeth's Diagnostic Imaging department. "It will take a couple months to get familiar with your breasts. If you find something make an appointment immediately." Breast cancer affects both genders, and in 2011, more than 200,000 men were diagnosed with it. Currently, statistics and research show a chance for one out of ten. Officials say early detection is key to survival and self examinations are also vital. "Exams at home are important," said Darlene Brunner, 375th Medical Group women's health nurse practitioner and retired lieutenant colonel. "It's also important for members to be familiar with what their breast feels like. When the member who is familiar conducts the self exams, they can realize the change." Even though members should conduct monthly self exams, officials still encourage yearly clinical breast exams by their physician. The 375th Medical Group also offers many diagnostic services to help servicemembers and families address concerns. The radiology imaging flight provides regular mammography screenings, diagnostic breast exams, biopsy, MRIs, and ultrasound imaging as required by a primary care physician. Tricare beneficiaries may also walk in for annual mammography screenings in the radiology department if no new findings were noted since their last exam. "Breast Cancer Screening is proven to be effective," said Loeffelman. "Make sure when you are talking to your physician you ask and understand what your risk is." For more information on breast cancer, contact the 375th Medical Group at 256-9355 or to schedule an exam, call the diagnostic imaging flight at 256-7420.