Are you due for a mammogram?
October 11, 2024
Early detection matters, as 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Regular screening mammograms are the most effective test to detect cancer early when it is more treatable. Your primary care provider can help you stay on track with annual screening exams.
When should a woman begin having mammograms?
Mankato Clinic follows the guidelines of the American College of Radiology (ACR) and recommends annual 3D screening mammograms starting at age 40 for women of average risk and at age 30 for women at high risk. While the machine and positioning are the same as a 2D mammogram, a 3D mammogram is our standard of care as it offers a more detailed view of the breast tissue, resulting in fewer callbacks for additional imaging.
Should I do monthly breast self-exams?
Today, we encourage breast self-awareness by being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any changes in your breasts, let your healthcare provider know right away. Clinical breast exams performed by your healthcare provider are also important and can be done every 1-3 years depending on discussions with your healthcare provider.
What determines a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime?
Understanding your risk often begins at well women visits with your primary care provider or gynecologist by gathering information on your personal and family history. For women aged 40 and older, the information is reviewed at your annual screening mammogram visit. Mankato Clinic Breast Health then enters personal and family history into the Tyrer-Cuzick model, to calculate an individual’s risk score. For women with a high-risk score, the American College of Radiology (ACR) and Mankato Clinic recommends an annual screening breast MRI beginning at age 25 and annual 3D screening mammograms starting at age 30. After turning 30, alternating the two screenings in 6-month intervals is recommended for women at high risk.
What factors increase your risk?
- Being a woman
- Personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Dense tissue type on mammography
- Personal history of a breast biopsy with a high-risk lesion found
- Age over 30 at first full term pregnancy
- No history of full-term pregnancy
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
- Black American ancestry
- Chest radiation therapy between the ages of 10 and 30
- Smoking
- More than one alcoholic drink a day
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
Your risk score is re-evaluated at every mammogram appointment. Women may see their score fluctuate with aging or changes in personal and family history. One of the biggest changes you will see when having your mammogram is the Mankato Clinic uses artificial intelligence when evaluating your breast density. This is calculating the total volume of density in your breasts. Having dense breast tissue can increase your risk of developing breast cancer so we believe it’s important to get an accurate measurement of the density of your breasts. Breast density can change over time.
How do I schedule an annual screening mammogram at the Mankato Clinic?
Contact your primary care provider to order your annual mammogram. You may also schedule a screening mammogram on the Mankato Clinic Breast Health and Imaging website page by visiting: mankatoclinic.com/specialties/breast-health-imaging-center.
Most health insurance plans cover regular mammograms. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to check your coverage.