Why is it necessary to do a mammogram?

IT CAN FIND CANCER!: Breast cancer will affect 1 in 8 women! the american college or radiology recommends yearly screening mammograms begin at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the diagnosis of a primary relative (sister/mother). In addition, because not all cancers can be seen on mammogram, women should do monthly self-exams, as well as periodic exams by a breast health professional.

Mammogram: It is not necessary to get a mammogram. A mammogram is a screening test for breast cancer and considered preventive medicine. 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer, including those with strong family history of (maternal side) breast cancer. Since finding breast cancer in the early stages increases the cure rate, it is to a woman's advantage to get screened.

They Save Lives!: It is well-established that yearly mammograms (beginning at age 40) will find cancers at an earlier stage than by physical examination alone. This translates into smaller operations, less need for chemotherapy, and, ultimately, saved lives. Despite these facts, less than half of all eligible women comply with this recommendation. What can our profession do to increase this?

Mammograms: Screening mammography is performed to detect early breast cancers, when they are potentially most curable. Mammography screening programs have been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality. Most organizations recommend starting screening at age 40.