Breast cancer impacts about 13% of women, meaning that approximately one out of every eight women will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in their life.
According to breastcancer.org, “In 2022, an estimated 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 51,400 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
“About 43,250 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2022 from breast cancer. Death rates have been steady in women under 50 since 2007, but have continued to drop in women over 50. The overall death rate from breast cancer decreased by 1% per year from 2013 to 2018. These decreases are thought to be the result of treatment advances and earlier detection through screening.”
These statistics indicate how important it is to be aware of the impact of breast cancer and to take effective action to detect it early. Using a mammogram to screen for breast cancer leads to early detection–and a greater chance of successfully treating and conquering the disease.
Why is it so important to have regular mammograms?
Mammography can help catch most breast cancers. In fact, it is more effective than any other method of early detection of breast cancer. The sensitivity of mammography is very high; in other words, a mammogram will correctly identify 87% of breast cancer in women. For women over 50 or who have fatty breasts with less density, the sensitivity is higher than for those who are younger, with denser breasts.
However, regular screenings are essential. Screening with a mammogram can find cancer before there are any symptoms. Regular mammograms can help find and treat pre-cancers and cancers that are only detectable with technology. Detecting early ensures it is caught before it has a chance to spread. Detected early by a mammogram, cancer has a far greater chance of being cured.
While having a mammogram is the most effective way of detecting breast cancer early, at the same time, it’s also important to pay attention to changes in your breasts, perform monthly self-exams of your breasts, and have your breasts examined by a health professional each year.
How often should I have a mammogram?
A yearly mammogram is ideal for most women, but your age and other factors may inform the frequency of screening that is best for you.
Start Screening Mammograms at age 40
Recommended to have annual breast cancer screening with mammograms.
Women who have genetic mutations may begin screening earlier, at age 25. Women who have a family history of breast cancer may begin screening about ten years earlier than the age of their first affected relative in the family.
TeleMammography USA
At TeleMammography USA, you can expect a rapid turnaround on your breast imaging, the highest standard of patient care, unmatched experience, and complete dedication to women’s health.
