Q: When should I get my first mammogram and how often do I need to be screened?
A: Most physicians adhere to The American Cancer Society (ACS) guidelines for screening for women:
Age 40-44 should have the opportunity to begin annual screening.
Age 45-54 should undergo regular annual screening.
Age 55+ should transition to biennial screening or have the opportunity to continue screening annually.
Q: If breast cancer runs in my family, do screening recommendations change?
A: If a patient is at high risk, a conversation with her healthcare provider can help determine what age to start. In general, imaging should begin 10 years younger than the youngest diagnosis of breast cancer in the family.
Q: Should I receive a traditional screening mammogram or different type of imaging?
A: I recommend the following:
Most women should receive traditional screening mammogram
For women with dense breasts (as detected by a traditional mammogram), both 3D mammograms and ultrasounds can be helpful. These screenings allow for extra images and at different depths.
For women at high cancer risk or newly diagnosed cancer, MRIs are generally used. Overall, it’s important to consult with your physician on the right type of screening for you. The advanced imaging options may require additional pre-approval steps with insurance companies and are usually ordered by a specialist.
The Christ Hospital offers mammograms at seven convenient locations throughout the tristate with early morning and Saturday appointments available at many locations. Call 513-585-2668 to schedule your appointment at any location. Or schedule your appointment online!