Reviewed by Eugene Huang, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Wheelhouse
Mammography is the screening test used for breast cancer. Guidelines for breast cancer screenings vary depending on:
- a strong family history of breast cancer,
- a personal history of breast cancer,
- a history of radiation treatment to the chest, and/or
- specific genetic mutations.
At what age should I start breast cancer screening?
The guidelines below are the American Cancer Society’s recommendations for women with an average risk of breast cancer:
- Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.
- Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.
- All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do.
Self-Examinations
Women and men should be very familiar with how their breasts feel and look. Women and men of any age should practice self-examinations on a regular basis to detect anything unusual. Changes should be addressed with their healthcare provider immediately. Early detection can be life-saving!
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