Mammography and Screening
* Breast cancer screening methods * What is a mammogram * Mammography recommendations * When a mammogram is not enough What is a mammogram?A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram can find cancer when it is still small and easier to treat. Health and medical experts recommend that all women get a mammogram on a regular basis — every year for women age 40 and over (and perhaps earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer). It is also important to follow the screening guidelines for clinical breast exams and breast self-exams. If you have a breast problem, a mammogram can also be used to help diagnose it. A mammogram is done in an outpatient facility like your doctor's office, a hospital clinic, or a mobile van. The picture is taken by a technologist. The x-ray machine uses very little radiation. A radiologist will look at the x-ray picture for signs of breast cancer or other breast changes. These changes are small and hard to see, so it is best to have a mammogram every year. That way, a radiologist can compare your x-rays from year to year to see if there have been any changes. Mammograms are very accurate, but they are not perfect. They can find a lump much smaller than you or your doctor can feel. But sometimes they can miss cancer. That is why it is important to keep checking your breasts by clinical breast exams and breast self-exam. What if you cannot afford a mammogram?If you have insurance, most plans cover mammography. Medicare also pays for mammograms. There are many free or low cost programs. For help, contact:
The SW Michigan Affiliate |
