Does It Matter Where You Get a Mammogram?
Conservative data indicates that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Our Athens obgyns strongly encourage our patients age 40 and up to get a mammogram each year. This important diagnostic tool helps doctors identify and treat breast cancer as soon as possible, which saves lives.
Early detection is key with breast cancer
We understand that everyone leads busy lives, and finding time for a routine screening can seem tough. Catching breast cancer at the earliest possible stage, however, can mean the difference between planning a future or preparing for the unthinkable. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, when breast cancer is detected and treated at the localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 99 percent.
Important considerations for when you get a mammogram
Whether you are scheduling your first visit or are veteran at getting mammograms, planning ahead for your appointment can ease any concerns. By far, the most critical detail when it’s time to get a mammogram is to schedule and attend your yearly screening appointment on time. Consider the following tips from our Athens obgyns:
- Understand the guidelines.
Most medical professionals and the American Cancer Society recommend annual screening mammograms for women starting at age 40. Any family history of breast cancer could mean scheduling the screening sooner.
- Look for American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation.
Only get a mammogram at a facility accredited by the ACR because at these centers, the clinicians are specially trained and certified in mammography, and the equipment is regularly inspected.
- Don’t let cost stop you.
Most insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover the costs of screening mammograms. If you don’t have insurance, reach out to the American Cancer Society or the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program to find out about low-cost and/or free options. - Opt for a 3D mammogram.
This more advanced imagining assists medical professionals in catching breast cancer earlier, which improves the odds of curing the disease.
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to mammograms. Prioritize your long-term health, and schedule your screening mammogram appointment right away. Contact our office for more information about breast cancer or to find out if you need to get a mammogram.
