What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram (also called mammography) is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to screen for and diagnose breast cancer and other abnormalities of the breast.
 
Who Should Get a Mammogram?
The American Cancer Society recommends that women of average risk begin getting annual mammograms at the age of 40.  Women with a higher risk of developing the disease, such as those who have a mother or sister diagnosed with breast cancer, should speak to their doctors about breast cancer screening.  Breast self-exams should be done by every woman starting in her 20’s.
 
Why Get a Mammogram?
A mammogram is the most effective way to detect a cancerous tumor in the breast at its smallest, earliest and most treatable stage.

• According to the FDA, mammography can uncover a lump up to two years before it can be felt.  (Imaginis, “Benefits and Risks of Mammography”, 2008)
• When tumors are found small and early, patients have a better chance of having breast-conserving surgery to remove them rather than a mastectomy.
• Breast cancers found by mammography are often early-stage tumors which have not spread to surrounding tissues.  These cancers are easier to treat and have better outcomes.

According to the American Cancer Society, recent studies are giving women even more reason to schedule their yearly mammogram.

• A New York study has found that breast cancer survival rates have improved as regular mammography screenings have been incorporated into women’s healthcare.
• A recent study showed that women whose cancers were discovered by mammogram lived longer than those whose tumors were discovered by another means, even when the cancers were at the same stage.  Researchers are not sure why this is the case.

Risks of Mammograms
Mammograms can be slightly uncomfortable when performed, but they are safe.  The amount of radiation used is minimal and does not increase the risk of breast cancer according to scientific data. 
 
While there are some who fear that regular mammogram screenings for women in their 40’s may lead to over diagnosis and overtreatment, major cancer organizations stand by the scheduling recommendations.  The opportunity for breast cancer patients to receive earlier treatment for breast tumors may outweigh the potential risks for younger women, and for women over 50, the evidence for yearly mammograms is undisputed.

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