Mammograms are highly important for diagnosing early symptoms of breast cancer. Some women try to undergo mammography every few years. However, suddenly they noticed the symptoms of breast cancer signs in their mammography report. So, how long should they continue having mammograms? Let us discuss this issue briefly.
As you age, you have a higher risk of getting affected by breast cancer. Several women aged 45 to 54 years are diagnosed with this deadly disease. The risk is higher for those who are above 55. So, you can routinely undergo mammography to detect cancer early and save your life.
When is it safe to stop your yearly mammogram?
Yearly mammograms should start at the age of 40. To get mammogram guidelines, you can contact the best Radiology center at Harding.
However, there is no set rule on when to stop this scanning process.
The major purpose of breast cancer screening is to identify cancer symptoms early. That is why you should consider having an annual mammogram. You may have breast cancer after 70 also. So, it is your personal decision when you should stop having mammograms. Life expectancy, genetics, and family history are some common risk factors for every woman.
The best thing is to start the breast screening process at 45. After hitting 50, you will have a clearer picture. While some women have a mammogram every 2 to 3 years, others prefer it every year. For women in the age group of 50 to 75, there is an overtreatment risk.
What happens in case of dense breasts?
Breast density increases the risk of breast cancer. If your breast is dense, you should have alternative treatments like ultrasonography.
Natural aging process causes a reduction of breast density. While analyzing mammograms, scientists have found that women above 60 still have highly dense breasts. Those who have a high breast density may find a risk of more complicated breast cancer symptoms.
Moreover, if your siblings and parents have breast cancer, you should be more careful. You can continue having mammograms for several years.
You might have started taking medications for low-risk breast cancer. Still, a mammogram is essential to avoid the formation of additional cancer cells. Medications like aromatase inhibitors reduce the risk of having new cancer symptoms in your breast. However, you should not start taking medications on your own. It is essential to talk to a doctor in Morristown, New Jersey.
What to do when a mammogram shows abnormal results?
An abnormal result may not always indicate breast cancer. The result may require you to undergo further tests to identify benign lumps and cysts. Before your healthcare service providers start diagnosis and treatment, you may need follow-up mammography. If the lump has shown any serious issues, you need to have a biopsy. You should work together with your doctor to make your treatment effective.
So, connect with the best radiology center in your locality and get the desired service. You will surely benefit from early diagnosis.