Pink Ribbon Chronicles: What You Need to Know About Screening

Many of us know at least one person affected by breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following certain skin cancers. The good news is breast cancer screening allows early detection, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment. Here are three things you should know when it comes to breast cancer screening:

1. Breast cancer screening is generally recommended for women between the ages of 40 and 75, but earlier screening may be recommended based on personal risk factors. The US Preventive Services Task Force expanded the age recommendation from 45 to 40 in recent years due to the increasing incidence of breast cancer among younger women. Furthermore, those  at greater risk  may require personalization of the screening schedule. Some people have a strong history of breast cancer with genes (portions of their DNA) that increase their risk. For example, people with BRCA 1 and 2 genes are at ~50% higher risk of developing breast cancer.  Thus, it is important to discuss with your provider if earlier screening would be best for you based on your individual risk.
   
2. Mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Mammograms are designed to take several  small x-rays of the breast that can detect early changes in tissue. Additional imaging may be recommended for women with dense breast tissue. Dense tissue may be harder to analyze with mammograms alone, thus ultrasound or MRI may be offered to take another thorough look at the tissue.
   
3. In some cases, you may be called back for additional imaging after your initial mammogram. Sometimes the radiologist would like a closer look at the tissue, like in the case of dense breasts as previously mentioned. Furthermore, there are other breast abnormalities besides cancer that can be picked up through mammography. Common benign (non-cancerous) lumps include the following cysts, fibroadenomas, and galactoceles. Try your best not to panic, and speak with your radiologists to further explain your findings.

Mammogram screening is not the cure to breast cancer, but it does allow clinicians to detect cancer in its early stages while it is the most treatable. At Trust Women’s Healthcare, we provide comprehensive breast examinations and can help you navigate breast cancer screening. Do not hesitate, schedule an appointment with us!