What is a Mammogram?

  • 15.11.2022
  • 943 views

Aside from skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United states, and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Each year, about 30% of all new female cancer diagnoses are breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer can increase the likelihood of successful treatment, tremendously. The American Cancer Society recommends the following for screening:

  • Women between 40 and 45 have the option to start getting a mammogram every year
  • Women between 45 and 54 should get a mammogram every year
  • Women 55 and older can continue to get a mammogram every year or switch to getting one every other year. Screening should continue as long as you are in good health.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breasts that is used to find early signs of breast cancer. During a mammogram, the breasts are placed on top of a plastic plate, and another plastic plate flattens the breasts from above. The plates will hold the breasts in place while the x-ray is taken, which only lasts a few moments. Your x-ray image will be sent to a radiology team who reads the image, and delivers back your results within a few weeks. Regular mammograms are the best way to catch breast cancer early – they can detect breast cancer up to three years before it can be felt.

If you have questions about mammograms or when to get screened, talk with your provider today!

andrew