Yearly mammograms save lives
The American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging recommend that each woman talk with her doctor about her breast cancer risk no later than her 30th birthday. This is especially important for Jewish women, African American women and other minority groups. By talking with their health care provider, women can better understand their breast cancer risk and breast cancer screening options.
The American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging recommend a screening mammogram every year beginning at age 40.
Some women have a higher chance of getting breast cancer than others. Factors that may increase your risk include:
- You have family members with breast cancer (although most women who develop breast cancer have no breast cancer in their family).
- You have already had breast cancer.
- You carry certain genetic mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
- Someone in your family is a genetic mutation carrier and you remain untested yourself.
- You have been previously treated with radiation to your chest for cancer.
- You have had certain “high-risk” results on breast biopsies such as atypias or pre-cancerous lesions.
- You have dense breast tissue on mammography.
Some women with one or more risk factors may be considered at highest risk for developing breast cancer.
Mercyhealth offers a variety of breast health services.