By Miranda Miller
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. It is caused when cells mutate into malignant (cancer-causing) cells that rapidly multiply in the breast tissue. 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. While this may seem like a daunting number, if detected early, the 5-year survival rate is 99%. Prevention is key, and the most common way of detecting the cancer in its early stages is through a mammogram.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray photograph of breast tissue. Mammography is one of the most common detectors of breast cancer, and can find early signs as early as three years before physical signs, like lumps, develop. While taking the pictures may be uncomfortable for some, it is not a painful procedure and is very quick, usually only lasting 10 to 15 seconds per image. After the imaging, a radiologist will send your report to your physician and you will get a phone call with results after about two weeks. However, even if there seems to be suspicious growth, it’s important to stay calm and acknowledge that false positives can happen and many abnormalities turn out to be benign.
When should I get one?
The general rule for when to get your mammogram is every year after you turn forty. However, it’s important to consider the genetic or environmental risk factors that could put you at a higher risk and require earlier or more frequent screenings. For example, if a direct family member was diagnosed with breast cancer, especially at a young age, it’s recommended to begin screening in your thirties.
Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, and hormone treatments like Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Additionally, if you have dense breast tissue, meaning your breast is composed of more fibroglandular tissue than fat, you are at a higher risk and detection may be more difficult. In any case, you should have a conversation with your care provider to assess your risk and create a plan.
How do I get one?
Currently, all health plans are required by law to provide preventative mammograms every one or two years for women under 40. If uninsured, don’t worry. There are still many opportunities to get a screening. Programs like the CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program allow for eligible low income and uninsured women to get cost effective screenings. Additionally, Planned Parenthood can help find affordable options through referrals, which are orders used to get a procedure or test. If insured, the first step is to get a referral from your primary care doctor, then choose a radiology clinic to get the procedure.
Prevention and early detection are vital in preventing cancer development, and mammograms are one of the best ways to catch the disease in its early stages. Setting up a testing routine with your care provider based on your needs keeps you healthy and informed.
Sources-
Six Reasons to Get a Mammogram and What to Expect When You Do
How Can I Get a Free (Or Low Cost) Mammogram?
Breast Cancer Facts & Stats 2024
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board