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 lifetime1. While breast cancer deaths have decreased, Black women are 40%2 more likely to die from breast cancer than White women. But when detected early, the five-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%3.
Mammogram – The gold standard
The best way to detect breast cancer early is through an annual mammogram. This low-dose x-ray of the breast can detect breast changes before physical symptoms develop. At 87% sensitivity4, the mammogram is a good early detection screening that can lessen the need for mastectomy or chemotherapy.
Schedule your $0 screening mammogram
Now is always the best time to schedule your screening mammogram. It costs $0 when you use an in-network provider. Plus, you can earn a cash reward when you have the screening done by a SmartShopper®-eligible provider. Here’s how to find one:
- Click Find Care on your member portal at MyBlueKC.com, click Find Doctors, Specialists & Hospitals, then SmartShopper Rewards*
- Type “mammogram” in the search bar
- Select the type of mammogram you need
- Review provider options
- Providers that offer SmartShopper incentives will show the SmartShopper Cash Reward amount in a green box
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 work toward lowering your risk by:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating fruits and vegetables
- Keeping weight in check
- Knowing your family history
- Getting an annual mammogram
The information provided should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition.
1American Cancer Society, Key Statistics for Breast Cancer
2American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Death Rates are Highest for Black Women
3 National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., Breast Cancer Facts & Stats
4 Sensitivity means mammography correctly identifies about 87% of women who have breast cancer. Susan G. Komen, Accuracy of Mammograms
*SmartShopper for ACA is available to individual and family plan ACA members and small group ACA members. SmartShopper for employer groups includes fully insured large and fully insured non-ACA small group members, small group level funded members, and non-ACA individual and family plan members. Experience varies between ACA and non-ACA plans.