Health Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, with an estimated 281,550 new cases and 43,600 deaths in 2021. Mammography is a proven method of breast cancer screening that can detect cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable.

Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening

Numerous studies have shown that breast cancer screening mammography can reduce the risk of death from breast cancer.

For example:
* The Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC) found that women who had regular mammograms had a 25% lower risk of dying from breast cancer than women who did not have mammograms.

* The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that screening mammography saves the lives of approximately 27,000 women in the United States each year.

* Mammography can also:
- Detect breast cancer at an early stage, when it is more likely to be treatable.
- Reduce the need for more invasive and costly treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy.
- Provide peace of mind by giving women the knowledge that they are doing everything they can to protect their health.

Who Should Get a Mammogram?

The ACS recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer begin getting mammograms at age 40. Women who are at high risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or those who have had chest radiation therapy, should talk to their doctor about starting mammograms earlier.

How Often to Get a Mammogram?

The ACS recommends that women have a mammogram:**

• Every year for women ages 40 to 49
• Every 2 years for women ages 50 and older

What to Expect During a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast. It is a quick and relatively painless procedure. During a mammogram, a technician will position your breast on a special machine and compress it with a paddle. The paddle helps to spread out the breast tissue and make the X-ray image clearer.

Risks of Mammography

Mammography is a safe procedure, but there are some potential risks:
* Radiation exposure: Mammograms involve exposure to a small amount of radiation. However, the risk of breast cancer from the radiation in mammograms is very low.
* False positives: Mammograms can sometimes find areas of concern that turn out to not be cancer. This can lead to unnecessary biopsies and anxiety.
* False negatives: Mammograms can sometimes miss breast cancers. This is why it is important to have regular mammograms to increase the chances of finding cancer early.

Talking to Your Doctor

Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of breast cancer screening. Together, you can decide whether mammography is right for you.

Conclusion

Breast cancer screening mammography is a proven method of reducing the risk of death from breast cancer. It is a safe and effective procedure that can provide peace of mind and save lives. If you are at average risk of breast cancer, the ACS recommends that you begin getting mammograms at age 40. Women who are at high risk of breast cancer should talk to their doctor about starting mammograms earlier.