Mammograms are more important than ever
One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. It’s why mammograms are so vital.
Think about the women in your life…your mom, grandma, aunt, sister, daughter, neighbor or friend.
Would it surprise you to hear that one might get or have breast cancer at some time in her life?
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), a breast cancer diagnosis happens to about one in eight women.
Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer. It’s the second deadliest behind lung cancer.
Since 1989, death rates from breast cancer have decreased about 40%. That drop is due to greater awareness, better treatment options and screening mammograms.
“Mammograms have made a significant difference. Without early detection, those numbers would look very different,” says Sandra Smith, MD, a breast surgical oncologist with PeaceHealth in Vancouver, Washington.
Why mammograms?
Mammograms are as important as ever in reducing breast cancer deaths. Here’s why.
First, mammography is a proven technology. It has been used and improved over decades to reliably spot early breast cancer. Researchers are looking for new ways to detect cancers. In the meantime, mammography continues to be one of the most effective tools.
Second, mammograms are relatively quick and noninvasive. From check-in to check out, a mammogram appointment usually lasts about 30 minutes. The scan itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Third, most communities in the United States offer mammography services. That makes it easier for the large population of American women to get screenings when it counts. Half of women with breast cancer are diagnosed at the age of 62 or younger. The youngest of the Baby Boom generation (born 1946-1964) are now 60 or older.
One more reason to keep up with screening mammograms? The incidence of breast cancer is creeping back up (0.6% per year), according to the ACS. That rate is going up even more (1%) in women younger than 50.
When to have a mammogram
Experts agree mammograms are the best screening test.
The US Preventive Services Taskforce recommends a mammogram every one to two years for those between ages 40 and 74. Risk factors are also considered with this recommendation.
The ACS encourages annual mammograms starting at age 40 for women with no significant risk factors.
Understanding risk factors
Did you know three out of four women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease?
That said, family history is a risk factor. If you have a first-degree relative (i.e., mother, sister, daughter, father, brother, son) who had breast cancer, you are at higher risk.
Other factors that increase your risk of getting breast cancer include:
- Having a genetic mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
- A previous history of having breast cancer
- A history of having a breast biopsy with pathology that indicates atypical ductal hyperplasia, lobular carcinoma in situ, radial scar or papillomatosis
- Long-term hormone replacement
- Having dense breast tissue
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Eating a high fat diet
Breast cancer is more common in women who are white or Hispanic. Black women often have a deadlier form of breast cancer. (If you’re African American and in your 30s, ask your doctor when you should start screening for breast cancer.)
It's important to understand your personal risk for developing breast cancer.
Some women may require high-risk screening, depending on their individual risk factors.
This type of screening starts with a clinical breast examination and mammogram, says Dr. Smith. It might also include additional imaging, such as breast ultrasound or breast MRI. And genetic testing might be recommended if you have a family history of breast cancer.
Paying for mammograms
Most health insurance plans pay for screening mammograms. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says they should be covered every one to two years for women 40 or older, with no out-of-pocket cost.
Free or low-cost mammograms might also be available in some areas. If you can’t pay for a screening, visit the CDC screening page to learn more.
Self-exams are important too
In addition to regular mammograms, it's good practice to do your own self-exam every month. Do your check about two weeks after your last menstrual period. Feel or look for any unusual changes.
If you’re in your 40s and haven’t had a mammogram yet, talk to your primary care provider about getting started.
And if it’s been a while since your last screening, look at scheduling your next one soon.
