October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, learn more about prevention
Find out whether you need a screening mammogram, and what you can expect when you have one
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to draw attention to a disease that 1 in 8 US women will experience at some point during their lives. Thankfully, early detection with a screening mammography can help detect breast cancer earlier — potentially before it has a chance to spread. A mammogram can identify abnormal breast masses up to two years before they can be detected by touch.
However, as of 2015, only 65% of women over age 40 had had a mammogram within the previous two years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Other surveys put that number as high as 50%, despite the fact that early detection is considered to be the biggest advantage a woman has in beating breast cancer.
Here’s what you need to know about mammograms and your health:
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram lets radiologists look for changes in your breasts and breast tissue, by using low-dose radiation. The type of mammogram that is used for early detection is called a screening mammogram, and it looks for signs of breast cancer in women who do not have any symptoms or issues. A screening mammogram takes x-ray images of a woman’s breasts from two angles.
Mammograms use a machine designed specifically to examine breast tissue, which can be dense. It takes very low-dose images compared with x-rays of bones and other tissues. To help get a better image, the machine uses two plates to flatten or compress the breast. While this might cause some temporary discomfort, it allows for a more detailed, accurate image — and uses less radiation.
Santiam Hospital uses digital mammography as a way to help deliver the highest-quality diagnostic care.
Who should get a mammogram?
The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends women begin mammograms at age 40 and many insurance plans also begin to pay at this age. However, those at increased risk of breast cancer may consider going earlier.
What are some of the risk factors of breast cancer?
According to the CDC, most breast cancer is found in women over age 50. There are a number of factors that contribute to woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Some of these are within her control and can be changed to lower her risk, and others are not. The risk factors include:
- A personal or family history of breast cancer
- Early menstrual periods (before age 12) or menopause after age 55, due to longer exposure to hormones
- Use of certain oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
- Drinking 2 or more alcoholic beverages per day
- Not being physically active, or being overweight or obese
- Dense breasts
- Genetic mutations, including the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
- Age, since most cancers are diagnosed after age 50
Should I be aware of any symptoms of breast cancer?
While experts caution that sometimes no symptoms are present — which is why early screening is so important — the CDC warns that there are some signs and symptoms to be aware of:
- Any changes in breasts, including pain, lumps, etc.
- Thickening or swelling or the skin or tissue
- Red, flaky, irritated or dimpled breast skin
- Indentation or pain in the nipple area, as well as any discharge that isn’t breast milk
How should I prepare for a mammogram?
Here are some tips for preparing for your next mammogram:
- Schedule your mammogram at a time in your cycle when you don’t feel breast pain or tenderness, to help make the experience more comfortable.
- Avoid wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, which can show up as white spots. (Bring it with you to apply afterward.)
- You’ll need to undress from the waist up (removing your shirt and bra) and wear a gown, so choose pants, shorts or a skirt, rather than a dress.
- Share any observed changes in your breast health with your health-care provider.
What should I expect during a mammogram?
Being prepared for what to expect during a mammogram can help ease any fear or nervousness. Here’s what may happen during a screening mammogram. So that your health-care provider can more easily compare your images year after year, try to go to the same facility. If you have had imaging elsewhere, arrange for your information to be shared with your current provider.
- A technician will position your breasts in the machine — the room is otherwise private.
- Your breast will be placed on the plate, then an upper plate lowers to compress your breast — but it only lasts a few seconds.
- A mammogram takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, but the compression is just a few seconds.
- If you have larger breasts or have had breast augmentation, you may need to have additional imaging.
To schedule a mammogram at any time, or to get more information on women’s health, contact Santiam Hospital.
Members of the editorial and news staff of the USA TODAY Network were not involved in the creation of this content.