What You Should Know About Mammograms
Frequently-asked questions about mammograms
What is a mammogram?
It is an x-ray of the breast that gives a picture of the inside of the breast.
Why is a mammogram done?
Mammography can find cancers too small to be felt by a woman herself, or by her health care provider. Mammography can also show changes in the breast that could be a sign of very early breast cancer Mammography, when used with physical examination, has proven to be effective in saving lives.
How can I be sure to get a mammogram that is safe and of high quality?
The dose of radiation for the x-rays is very small. It is equal to about two hours in the sun. This low level of radiation places mammography in a safe range. If a mammogram facility is certified by your state's Department of Health Bureau of Radiation Control, the equipment and staff have met quality standards. Call your American Cancer Society Office or 1-800-ACS-2345 for a list of such facilities in your area. It is important for you to record where your mammogram is done. Future mammograms will need to be compared to those you have had in the past.
Should I have a mammogram even if I have no symptoms?
Yes. Early breast cancer may not have any symptoms. A mammogram can find breast cancer very early, one to two years before it can be felt in the breast. When breast cancer is found in its earliest stage, women survive.
What if I have symptoms?
If you do, see your doctor or other health care provider soon. If you are told that you need a mammogram, do so without hesitation. Important symptoms that you should report might include:
- A lump or a thickening in your breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin of your breast
- Scaling of the skin around the nipple
- Nipple discharge
- Any change in your breast from what has been normal for you.
Don't be alarmed. Most often these symptoms are not signs of breast cancer, but only your doctor or health care provider can tell you for sure.
Does a mammogram find all cancers?
No test is 100% accurate. That is why the American Cancer Society advises you to have your breasts examined once a year by your health care provider. And every month you should examine your own breasts.
How much does a mammogram cost?
The cost of a mammogram varies. Insurance covers the cost of a mammogram in most cases. Medicare pays for screening mammograms at regular intervals. Call the American Cancer Society to find out if you qualify for a low cost program that may be available in your area.
What are the most important risk factors for breast cancer?
- being a woman
- getting older
- having a close family relative with breast cancer (mother, sister, or daughter).
How do I decide what to do?
If you still have questions, ask your doctor or your health care provider. Together you can
decide what is best for you. To find breast cancer early, follow these guidelines:
- do breast-self examination every month
- have your doctor or health care provider examine your breasts every year
- have a mammogram according to the American Cancer Society guidelines
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommendations
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends the following guidelines* for breast cancer
screening of women without symptoms:
- Clinical Breast Exam by a health care professional every 3 years for women aged 20 to 39, and annually.
- For women age 40 and over.
- Breast Self-Exam monthly for all women age 20 or over.
- A mammogram every year for all women age 40 or over (screening may begin earlier if
clinically indicated).
* Guidelines for screening women without symptoms of breast disease and with normal risk for the presence of a strong family history of breast cancer or other factors may alter these recommendations. Check with your health care provider if you have any questions.
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