Breast Cancer Screenings Can Save Lives
Preventive medicine is crucial in helping people live a healthy and long life. And since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re reminding women that breast cancer screenings are the best way to find breast cancer early.
By getting a routine mammogram, you increase the possibility of early detection of any possible unknown concerns, which could lead to early treatment and better outcomes.
Finding breast cancer early and getting state-of-the-art cancer treatment are the most important strategies to prevent deaths from breast cancer. This is why it is so important to follow your recommended screening schedule. The American Cancer Society shares screening guidelines for women at average risk and high risk of breast cancer.
A closer look at recommended screening guidelines.
Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.
All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – including what the test can and cannot do. Contact your imaging center if you have any questions.
Women at high risk should have clinical breast exams every 6 to 12 months beginning at age 25, at the suggestion of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
Schedule a mammogram today.
If you have questions about when to get a mammogram, or other preventive screenings, contact your doctor. Your provider is always there to discuss the best options for your healthcare.
Read the recent BluePrint blogpost about the importance of breast and cervical cancer screenings.
What’s more, your hometown Customer Service team is here to answer any of your benefit-related questions, or to help you find a provider to schedule any important preventive screenings you may need.
Sources
https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.3322/caac.21457