In 2022, an estimated 287,850 women will be diagnosed with a new case of breast cancer.
It’s a scary number, but there is something you can do about it—get a baseline mammogram. This diagnostic test significantly impacts the survival rates of women diagnosed with breast cancer because it helps with early diagnosis.
If you are 40 or older and have not had a baseline mammogram or you are unaware of what a baseline mammogram is, it’s time to make your appointment—today. It could save your life.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about baseline mammograms.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray picture of your breasts.
To get the mammogram images, you stand in front of a specialized x-ray machine. A radiology technician will then place your breast on a plastic plate, then another plate lowers to press the top of your breast. The two plates “flatten” the breast as much as possible.
Most patients feel some pressure and report feeling uncomfortable, but the mammogram doesn’t take very long. The same plates are then used to get a side view x-ray of the breast. The technician repeats the procedure on the other breast.
The x-ray technician then checked the images to make sure they are clear for your doctor.
What is a Baseline Mammogram?
A baseline mammogram is your first mammogram. It is the one that will serve as a diagnostic tool for your doctor to compare future scans. Because every woman’s breasts are different, the baseline mammogram is important to make a diagnosis of any breast changes in the future.
The American Cancer Society recommends that every woman get their baseline mammogram done at the age of 40. If you have a family history of breast cancer or have had previous radiation to the chest, your doctor may recommend you get your baseline done at 35 years of age, instead of waiting until 40. Your primary care provider is the one who gives you a mammogram referral.
After your baseline mammogram, your doctor will recommend subsequent tests every year. This becomes a part of your annual primary care check-ups. Each yearly mammogram will be compared to your baseline results to detect any potential changes.
Why is a Baseline Mammogram Important?
When images from a baseline mammogram are compared to future mammogram results, it helps doctors determine if there are any abnormalities. These may include breast tissue changes, small cysts, or lumps.
The ability of a doctor to compare recent mammograms with the baseline mammogram means decreasing the chances of any false positives in future tests. It also decreases the chances of having to do unnecessary tests, scans, or biopsies.
Breast cancer is the most common women’s cancer. It is also the leading cause of death in women ages 40-49. Some women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of it, but most women who develop breast cancer have no known history of the disease.
Get your baseline mammogram—it could save your life.
Make Your Appointment Today
Studies show that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better outcome is. To be able to get an early diagnosis, it’s important to go for regular mammograms, starting with a baseline mammogram.
With two locations, in Boise and Meridian, the professional staff at Women’s Health Associates puts the health of women first. Contact us today to book an appointment.
