Get your mammo on
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for American women, except for skin cancers, and women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing it in their lifetime. But when detected early and small when it has not spread, breast cancer has a much higher rate for successful treatment.
Mammogram – the gold standard
The best way to detect breast cancer early is by regularly getting a mammogram. This low-dose x-ray of the breast can detect breast changes before physical symptoms develop. At 87% sensitivity*, the mammogram is a good early detection screening that can lessen the need for entire breast removal (mastectomy) or chemotherapy. According to BreastCancer.org, the pandemic is responsible for more late-stage breast cancers due to postponing annual mammograms. So, if you’ve missed your screening, schedule it now.
Schedule your $0 mammogram
Now is always the best time to schedule your mammogram. And it costs $0 when you use an in-network provider. Here’s how to find one:
- Visit Find Care on your member portal at MyBlueKC.com to find a mammogram provider in your network.
- Get your mammo plus Blue KC swag at an Element Imaging Mammogram Party in Liberty, Lee’s Summit, or Overland Park (no physician ordered needed). Contact the location nearest you for dates, hours, and to make an appointment.
Who’s at risk of breast cancer
It’s important to know your risk of breast cancer and to understand that risk can change over time. Family history can play an important role in knowing and understanding risk, as can:
- Drinking alcohol
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Taking hormone therapy for symptoms of menopause
However, you can lower your risk by:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating fruits and vegetables
- Keeping weight in check
- Knowing your family history
- Getting an annual mammogram
Connect with a professional about your mammogram
Want to talk to a medical professional about getting a mammogram but don’t want to schedule a doctor’s appointment? Ask your mammogram questions or discuss other personal health conditions using the Blue KC Care Management App. Download it now and use access code kchelpwelcome to register. Then tap Chat at the bottom of the home screen to immediately begin a secure messaging session. See everything the Care Management App offers.
*Sensitivity means mammography correctly identifies about 87% of women who have breast cancer. Susan G. Komen, Accuracy of Mammograms