Dr. Marlene Rodríguez

The concept and knowledge of breast cancer were not new to me. I have a strong family history of breast cancer; unfortunately, a cousin and my mother died from it because it was diagnosed too late. I am convinced that for many women, the prevention and early detection of any type of cancer can extend and improve their quality of life. For me, this was the case more than seven years ago.

With the goal of staying healthy and being proactive, I had been getting annual mammograms and faithfully performing self-exams. That’s why, during one of my doctor’s visits, they found images suggestive of cancer, and after a biopsy, the diagnosis came back negative. I continued to get mammograms regularly, and five years ago, suspicious images suggestive of cancer were found again. Once again, I had a biopsy right away, and this time, the result was positive. It was a long and difficult struggle, but I prepared myself for a total mastectomy. Thank God, no malignant cells were found in the rest of the breast. After this procedure, I received a breast implant. Today, I continue to follow the same care regimen—especially regarding my dietary habits—along with preventive medication, mammograms, and annual appointments with my specialist.

After witnessing God’s grace during this adversity and realizing that some of the steps I took helped save my life, as a doctor of general medicine, I’d like to take this opportunity to advise every woman to start getting mammograms between the ages of 38 and 40. If there is a family history of breast cancer, you should see a doctor and receive guidance well before symptoms appear.

Dr. Marlene Rodríguez