Breast Cancer Prevention: When Should I Start Having Routine Mammograms?

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a great time to learn more about lowering your risk for the disease.

At Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., we provide preventive breast cancer care, including routine mammograms and other diagnostic screenings.

Our experienced medical team can provide the guidance you need to stay current on preventive screenings based on your overall health and cancer risk factors.  If you aren’t sure when to schedule your first mammogram, we’ve outlined a few things to consider below.

What to know about mammograms

A mammogram is a diagnostic X-ray of breast tissue that helps physicians identify  cancer-related abnormalities. Early detection of breast cancer ensures you get the treatment you need right away to prevent the condition from getting worse.

During a mammogram, a technician positions your breast on a flat plate on a large X-ray machine. The device then compresses the breast to spread the tissue while we take X-ray images. The process repeats with the other breast, and the technician ensures the images are clear before you leave.

A radiologist reviews your X-rays to look for suspicious tissue. If the mammogram doesn’t provide enough information about the tissue, your provider may request an ultrasound or a biopsy, which removes a piece of breast tissue for further evaluation.

Generally, a mammogram takes 20 minutes or less to complete. Testing may cause some discomfort due to pressure on your breast tissue. You should remain still, although sometimes awkwardly, to ensure good-quality X-ray images.

When to schedule your first mammogram

Preventive mammograms are recommended for adult women without a previous history of breast cancer starting at age 35. Younger women may need earlier testing if they have a cancer history or are at high risk for breast cancer.

If you need an ultrasound or biopsy to clarify your results, it doesn’t mean you have cancer. Some women have dense breast tissue that’s difficult to evaluate on X-ray images, so further testing is needed.

Keeping up with annual breast exams gives you the best chance of catching cancer early, when treatment is typically most effective.

In the event your mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy shows cancer is present, our physicians discuss your options for moving forward. They may recommend surgery to remove cancerous tissue or suggest chemotherapy or radiation to destroy remaining cancer cells.

Do not forget self-exams

In addition to your annual mammogram at Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., you should also be proactive about checking your breasts at home.

A self-exam starts with a visual evaluation of your breasts. Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms resting on your hips. Note the size, shape, and color of your breasts and look for unusual swelling, bruising, or discharge. Raise your arms over your head and repeat the visual exam.

The next step in the self-exam requires you to lie flat on your back. Feel your breast with the opposing hand, using the pads of your figures to press down and move in a circular motion around your breast.

Contact our office for more information if you feel a noticeable lump or anything unusual.

Call Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., in Salem, Oregon, today to schedule your first or next mammogram. You can also book an appointment using the online feature.