Breast Protection — Choose Infrared Imaging

I’ve just been imaged! Infrared Breast Imaging is a unique, non-invasive procedure that significantly improves your chances of early detection of breast cancer. This technique is different from mammography and many doctors are making the switch.

Designed to complement important anatomical tests such as ultrasound, MRI, clinical breast examinations, and mammography as well, infrared breast imaging provides unique physiological data that has been proven to be 10x more significant as a future risk indicator than your family history of breast cancer.

My Private Experience — Seven Steps to Better Protection

First, as instructed, I made sure not to wear oils, lotions, deodorant or in other ways add temperature changing elements to my chest. Second, once the doctor was ready to see me, I was shown to a room where I removed my two t-shirts and donned a hospital gown open to the front. I was advised not to touch my chest at all, or else the imprint of my hands would be picked by the infrared exam. Third, I had to sit in a cold room to wait, to allow my body to adjust to the cold temperature. What a let-down. To be cold in November is not my idea of fun.

Since everything was so peaceful in the space, however, I was inspired to meditate AUM. I really got into it and chanted for about 10 minutes.

Fourth, finally, a few seconds after I stopped meditating, the assistant came to get me and ushered me into the examining room. Fifth, she stayed in the room with me, which I thought was a nice touch. I was told to sit on a swivel stool near the wall. An camera instrument that reminded me of the one used by optometrists was aimed at my chest — but it was over 4′ away. The doctor sat at a monitor attached to the camera.

Sixth, I was then asked to raise my hands behind my head and clasp my fingers. I did so and what should happen but I smell my underarms as if I didn’t just take a shower before coming to this appointment!

“Yikes! I smell,” I couldn’t hold back.

“I thought you said it was cold in there?” the assistant said.

“It was, but I started chanting and I guess that worked up a sweat!”

“We’ll have to send you to the Himalayas if you can sweat on demand like that,” the doctor joked. This was amazing to me too. I didn’t realize how warm I actually got.

Seventh, the screening itself consisted of me turning to left or right and lifting my breasts up just a tad, so images could be taken of the undersides. It lasted no more than 10 minutes, if that.

Breast Imaging Basics

• Available to all women AND MEN over 18
• Women with implants, dense tissue, partial mastectomies can undergo imaging
• Women who are pregnant or breast feeding can undergo imaging
• Touch is not involved, so there’s no painful compression as in mammography

Flowers Healing Arts & C.K.G. in Montclair (460 Bloomfield Ave.) uses the Spectron IR Medical Infrared Breast Imaging system for patients. This system has “the unparalleled ability to pinpoint areas of concern that may not be readily detected with mammograms or clinical breast exams.” In fact, the procedure is designed to be part of your annual screening routine.

It’s best to enhance “early detection of breast cancer through the corroboration of different imaging techniques,” says the brochure.

Dr. Flowers offers breast imaging for $399. You can get 10% off when you mention referral by Niamo at The HealMobile. The Center provides the paperwork for you to get reimbursed by your health insurance.

–Rev. Niamo Nancy Muid