National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Though breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer that affects women, many women can survive if it is detected and treated early on. It is extremely important for women to get a mammogram every year—see below the age chart from the American Cancer Society. Regular mammograms can often help find breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most likely to be successful. A mammogram can find breast changes that could be cancer years before physical symptoms develop. Results from many decades of research clearly show that women who have regular mammograms are more likely to have breast cancer found early, less likely to need aggressive treatment (like surgery to remove the entire breast [mastectomy] and chemotherapy), and more likely to be cured.

Ages 40 to 44

Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so. The risks of screening as well as the potential benefits should be considered.

Age 45 to 54

Women between the age of 45 to 54 should get mammograms every single year.

Age 55 and older

Women age 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years, or have the choice to continue yearly screening.

Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.

All women should be familiar with the known benefits, limitations, and potential harms associated with breast cancer screening. They should also be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to a health care provider right away.

Be sure to talk with your primary care physician or OBGYN about getting a mammogram and the best options for you.