Mammograms: a key tool in the fight against breast cancer

October 18, 2019 is National Mammography Day. It’s observed yearly as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and is an opportunity to educate the public on the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer.

About one in eight American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Although death rates have been declining in recent years, it’s estimated that more than 40,000 women will die of breast cancer in 2019. The best way to prevent cancer and ensure positive outcomes remains early detection and screenings.

Screening mammograms
A mammogram is an X-ray photograph of the breast. It’s one of the most important screening tools available to doctors because it can detect anomalies before they become noticeable through self-exam. This allows healthcare professionals to catch cancer early, thus increasing the chances that the treatments offered will be effective.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer get screened every year between the ages of 45 and 55. Women 55 and older should get screened every second year, for as long as they’re expected to live another 10 or more years.

Diagnostic mammograms
These allow doctors to get more information about a suspicious lump or other anomaly detected by screening tests. It’s a crucial tool that enables medical professionals to design effective treatment plans and provide the best care possible.

Early detection and prevention have dramatically reduced breast cancer deaths. Being proactive about screening is the most important thing you can do to protect your health. For more information, visit nationalbreastcancer.org or pinkribbon.org.