Breast cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in the United States. This year, the American Cancer Society projects that US physicians will diagnose nearly 288,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and just over 51,000 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a highly treatable form of early-stage breast cancer.
Routine screening mammograms detect these tumors early when they’re most treatable.
As women’s wellness specialists, our highly rated North Atlanta OB/GYN team wants you to understand how important your annual mammogram appointment is. Quick detection of breast cancer can save lives.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There’s no better time to explore why early detection is essential and how regular mammograms and clinical breast exams can help you take charge of your health.
Breast cancer represents about one in three new cancer cases diagnosed in women each year, second only to skin cancer.
About 13% (one in eight) of American women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Middle-aged and older women are the most affected. Half of the cases occur in women 62 or younger.
Although women of all ages can be diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s rare before the age of 45.
Breast cancer is also a leader when it comes to cancer-related deaths, following just behind lung cancer.
Although this statistic is scary, there has been progress. Since 2007, breast cancer mortality rates in women over the age of 50 have been steadily declining.
This drop is mainly due to regular screening mammograms. These screenings can be life-saving, and integrating them into your routine wellness plan could one day save your life.
Breast cancer is easiest to treat when detected before it metastasizes. Since breast cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, regular screening mammograms are the best way to catch it in its early, treatable stages.
If we catch and treat invasive breast cancer before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is an encouraging 99%.
For women with an average risk of breast cancer, current guidelines provide the following recommendations:
You should continue routine mammograms as long as you’re in good health and expect to live at least 10 more years.
If you have a higher risk of breast cancer due to family history, genetic factors, or other considerations, our North Atlanta OB/GYN team may recommend annual mammograms and breast MRIs starting at age 30. You may also benefit from having them more than once per year.
A screening mammogram usually takes 30 minutes or less.
During a mammogram, a specially trained technician positions your breast on a flat surface of the X-ray machine. They then gently compress the breast between two plates to spread out the tissue, allowing for a clearer image. The compression may feel uncomfortable but only lasts a few seconds.
A mammogram takes images of each breast from multiple angles for best analysis.
A radiologist then evaluates these X-rays to help to detect any abnormalities or early signs of breast cancer. In addition to helping you schedule your mammogram, we also offer complete wellness services, preventive care, prenatal care, gynecological care, and state-of-the-art treatments.
If you’re due for a mammogram, take the necessary steps to schedule your appointment. If you’re unsure about your risk factors or screening needs, our team is here to help develop a personalized screening plan that suits you.
Call North Atlantic OB/GYN or use the online tool to contact us. We want to help you maintain long-term breast and gynecological health.
