Patient Advocacy: Siobhán Freeney’s Battle Against Breast Cancer

Diagnosis and Initial Shock

In December 2015, Ms. Siobhán Freeney received an alarming diagnosis: stage three invasive lobular carcinoma, a type of breast cancer affecting the milk-producing glands. The shock was compounded by the tumor’s size – an alarming 7 centimeters in diameter. Freeney expressed immediate bewilderment, questioning how the clear mammogram she had six months prior could miss such a significant issue.

“I was quite shocked at the size of the tumour. I couldn’t understand how it could evade detection in my previous mammogram,” she recounted.

Missed Diagnoses and Patient Advocacy

Her tumor eluded detection during consecutive BreastCheck screenings, as she was unaware of her breast density and was not informed of essential follow-up imaging options. This realization prompted Freeney to become an advocate for better breast cancer screening policies, especially for women with dense breasts.

“I sought answers and asked basic questions, only to be told there was nothing suspicious on my previous mammogram. There was minimal information provided regarding my condition,” she explained.

She later found抱住 herself regarding breast density after reaching out to grassroots advocacy groups, learning that her tumor was described as “occult” and not visible on mammograms due to her dense breast composition.

The Challenges of Dense Breasts

Half of breast cancers in women with dense breasts are missed on mammograms. This sobering statistic underscores the urgency for better screening methods. Freeney emphasizes the importance of recognizing breast density, which is a critical factor in the effectiveness of mammograms.

“Breasts are made up of fatty and non-fatty tissues. Dense breasts contain a higher proportion of non-fatty tissue. Women with very dense breasts have a higher risk of breast cancer,” Freeney stressed.

Raising Awareness with a Petition

Freeney has mobilized over 6,000 supporters through her petition, demanding standard breast density notification for all women undergoing mammograms. The petition highlights the necessity of informing women about their breast density and tailoring screening recommendations accordingly.

“Women need to be aware of their breast density to take proactive steps in their health care. Radiologists must consider breast density in their assessments and recommend appropriate imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI, to ensure thorough cancer screening,” she added.

The Importance of Medical Record Management

When Freeney sought copies of her medical records from BreastCheck, she encountered significant challenges. The organization did not retain her medical documents despite her request.

“It was astounding that they did not keep track of my medical records. Keeping such records is crucial for patient care and follow-ups,” she shared.

The Role of Ultrasounds and MRIs in Cancer Screening

According to Freeney, ultrasounds and MRIs are critical in detecting breast cancers in women with dense breasts, where mammograms fall short. These imaging modalities offer a more comprehensive assessment, especially for occult tumors.

“We need to have open discussions about breast density and the need for supplemental imaging to detect breast cancer early. Awareness is the first step in improving screening practices,” she concluded.

A Call for Change

Siobhán Freeney’s journey as a patient champion underscores the necessity of better breast cancer screening measures. Her advocacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of accurate medical information and patient awareness.

Her story encourages women to inquire about their breast density, understand their screening options, and stay informed about their health.

Join Ms. Freeney in her mission to enhance breast cancer screening in Ireland. Your support can make a significant difference. Sign her petition at Change.org.

Let us listen to patients like Siobhán Freeney and work together to improve healthcare outcomes for all women.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to receive more insightful and life-changing stories like this one. Follow us on social media to stay updated with the latest health news and advocacy prompts.