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A revealing look at mammograms

Like so many other cancers, finding breast cancer early is a good thing because the disease tends to be easier to treat in its beginning stages. The best tool we have for detecting breast cancer is a mammogram.

This low-dose x-ray can find breast cancer before you have any symptoms of the disease, like a lump. Research shows that women who get regular mammograms are more likely to find breast cancer early. They are also less likely to undergo aggressive treatments for their cancer, such as breast removal, and less likely to die from the disease. All that adds up to a simple recommendation: Don’t skip mammograms. Make sure they are a part of your regular screening schedule for cancer.

Here are five other tips to help you better understand this important test.

1. Check your age. The risk of breast cancer increases with age. If you don’t have a personal history of breast cancer or a strong family history, you are considered at average risk for the disease. In that case, the American Cancer Society guidelines are as follows:

Women ages 40 to 44. You can start getting a mammogram every year if you choose.

Women ages 45 to 54. You should get a mammogram every year.

Women ages 55 and older. Discuss with your doctor whether you should get a mammogram every other year.

2. Know your risk. Some women may be at high risk for breast cancer. If you think you are, talk to your doctor about whether you need to start doing mammograms earlier or if you should have other tests besides a mammogram. Factors that increase the risks for breast cancer include having:

  • A BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation found through genetic testing.
  • A first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) who’s had breast cancer or is known to have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
  • Radiation therapy to the chest before between the ages of 10 and 30.
  • Breasts with a lot of dense tissue.

3. Know all your testing options. For some women at high risk for breast cancer, screening with a breast MRI or ultrasound may be recommended in addition to a mammogram.

4. Do your due diligence. Although research hasn’t shown a clear benefit for doing self breast exams, you still want to be aware of any change in the size or shape of your breast, as well as any pain in a breast or nipple. Check for any lumps in your breasts or under your arm. If you notice any changes, talk to your doctor immediately.

5. Follow up. You should get the results of a mammogram from your doctor within 10 days. Don’t assume no news is good news. Call your doctor’s office to get your results. Chances are good everything is fine. But you want to know for sure.

Sources: American Society of Clinical Oncology; Office on Women’s Health

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