Mammograms are an effective tool in the early detection of breast cancer. Breast cancer impacts hundreds of thousands of women each year as it is the second most common cancer among women worldwide. Getting regular mammograms can help reduce your risk and improve your prognosis if you are diagnosed. Many women are not sure when they should get their first mammogram and what the evidence-based guidelines are on the exam. You may wonder, what has changed with mammogram guidelines? Below you will find helpful information about mammograms, including when and how often you should get yours.
What Has Changed With Mammogram Guidelines?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray exam that captures images of your breast. The exam detects abnormal changes in your breast tissue, often before they can be felt. Mammograms play a critical role in identifying potential signs of breast cancer in its early stages. This is helpful as it increases your chances of surviving breast cancer. If you haven’t had your first mammogram or have not had a mammogram for a while, consider the updated information about mammograms.
Because science is constantly evolving, the guidelines surrounding when and how often you should get a mammogram have changed. Previously, physicians recommended that women have their first mammogram around age 50. However, that has been moved up to age 40. Women who are at an average risk of breast cancer should get their first mammogram at 40 and continue getting annual exams. For those who are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, it’s advisable to get mammograms earlier than age 40. It’s important to talk with your doctor about your level of risk, in addition to when and how often you should get screened.
Reducing Your Risk
Reducing your risk of dying from breast cancer involves regular screening. This has been proven by research, as mammograms are the top tool for detecting breast cancer. Early detection is key to finding the issue before it has lethal consequences. Starting mammograms at age 40 is particularly important for all women. Because it is an integral part of ensuring your women’s health is in good shape.
In addition to regular mammograms, clinical breast exams and self-examinations can be especially helpful. Covering all of your bases and seeking medical advice when you are concerned can be highly beneficial in reducing your risk. It’s important to note that these are general recommendations, and individual factors should be considered with your medical provider. Understanding your personal risk can ensure that you are proactive when it comes to your health.
Assess Your Risk
Understanding your personal risk for breast cancer is necessary. This is because certain factors can place you at a higher risk. Some factors include a family history of breast cancer, genetic predisposition, and your personal health history. Black women are also at an increased risk for breast cancer at a younger age as compared to other racial groups. Additionally, Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer. It is critical to understand your risk so you can be proactive.
Talk with your medical provider about when and how often you should get a mammogram at a breast imaging center. This conversation will likely include an assessment of your personal risk, as discussed above. In addition, your medical provider can share how to complete self-exams at home so you can regularly check your breasts for any abnormalities. Lastly, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of mammograms, including all of the benefits and risks. Mammograms and turnkey mammography solutions are the most effective tool in detecting breast cancer early, so avoid skipping your next exam.