Arbor Health and Life Publications

If you have breasts, you probably already know that mammograms are important. These x-rays can detect cancer before even the tiniest lump can be felt.

When should you get screened? It depends on whether you have an average or increased risk for breast cancer.

You're at average risk if you have no personal history of breast cancer, no strong family history and no genetic mutation that increases your risk.

If you're at increased risk for breast cancer, your health care provider will give you personalized recommendations for screening.

If you're at average risk, you have choices:

• 40 to 44. You can choose to have a mammogram each year if you want peace of mind.
• 45 to 54. In this age window, you should get a mammogram every year.
• 55 and older. At this point, you can have a mammogram every other year or keep up with annual screenings.

Tips for having a successful exam

Follow these steps:

• Consider a health care facility that specializes in mammograms.
• As long as you like the care, stick with the same facility so your mammograms can be easily compared year over year.
• Avoid scheduling your screening the week before your period. Breasts are more likely to be tender at this time. The week after your period is the best time for less pain and clearer pictures.
• On the day of your mammogram, don't wear deodorant, powders, perfume or lotions under your arms or anywhere near your breasts. They could show up on the x-ray as white spots.
• Consider pants or a skirt and a top. It's easier to undress from the waist up.
• Tell the technologist performing the mammogram if you have breast implants or if you're breastfeeding.

What if your mammogram shows something?

If your mammogram leads to a follow-up call to schedule more tests, don't get anxious. Only 2 to 4 in 1,000 screening mammograms lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. If something is spotted, it could be dense breast tissue or a harmless cyst.

Categories: Mammograms