The controversy surrounding mammograms makes women’s health even more confusing than it already is. Women are asking, is the radiation dangerous? How often should you get a mammogram?
Make no mistake; mammograms are a lifesaving technology. Today, there are even 3D mammograms that can see into more breast tissue than ever before. This new technology increased early breast cancer detection by 40%.
It’s important to maintain routine mammogram screenings. To learn more about when to go, keep reading below.
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a type of x-ray specifically targeting the breasts. The x-ray takes an image of breast tissue that one of our providers later examines for any growths or abnormalities.
The most uncomfortable part of a mammogram involves squeezing the breast between two flat plates. This is necessary because it allows the x-ray to penetrate through more tissue and produce a better image. Cancer cells can be very small in the beginning and hide deep in the breast tissue.
When Should You Get Mammograms?
The ideal age to begin routine mammograms depends on the risk of cancer. Women with an average risk of developing breast cancer can begin screenings in their forties. Women who are at high risk for breast cancer should begin receiving mammograms much earlier.
High risk is defined as women who have BRCA gene mutations, women with close relatives that developed breast cancer, and women with a family history of breast cancer.
How Often Should You Get a Mammogram?
Again, this answer depends on the level of risk. Women with an average risk level can begin yearly mammograms in their forties. Once they advance past that age bracket, they can reduce their mammogram schedule to once every two years.
Women with a high-risk level, however, should begin getting a mammogram no later than thirty. Of course, it is best to ask a primary care physician for their professional medical opinion.
Is the Radiation Dangerous?
There are some myths surrounding the radiation involved in mammograms. These myths are dangerous because they discourage women from getting this lifesaving x-ray.
Yes, mammograms are a type of x-ray and use radiation to see through breast tissue. However, people are exposed to radiation every day. The amount of radiation in one mammogram is about two months’ worth of the everyday background radiation that we are exposed to.
What If There’s No History of Cancer?
Even if there is no family history of cancer, women should still schedule routine mammograms. In fact, only 15 to 20% of women with breast cancer report a family history of the disease.
The importance of mammograms is not to be underestimated. Early detection is lifesaving, and mammograms are key.
Scheduling a Mammogram
How often should you get a mammogram? It depends on your age. Women in their forties should have a routine mammogram once every year. Women older than forty can reduce their visits to once every two years.
To schedule your next mammogram and answer any questions you have about women’s health, book an appointment with us today.
