Are you overdue for a mammogram? You should schedule one now. Getting this breast cancer screening every year helps your doctor spot signs of cancer. This can be long before you notice any changes in your breasts.

As of last year, an estimated 35% of Americans missed their routine mammogram due to Covid-related fears. The drop in mammogram appointments could have serious consequences since early detection allows doctors to pinpoint breast cancer while it’s still treatable. If it’s been a year or more since your last mammogram, you should schedule one as soon as you can.

1. You may have breast cancer even if you haven’t felt a lump. You may not be able to feel a lump if it’s small or deep inside your breast. Luckily, mammograms can show lumps and other changes in the breasts that can be caused by cancer before they’re otherwise felt. The screenings use low dose X-rays that give doctors a look at the inside of your breasts.

2. The sooner cancer is caught, the better. Your chance of surviving breast cancer is much better if the cancer is found early. The five-year survival rate is 99% if the cancer is found before it spreads outside the breast, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. If found early, your doctor may only need to remove the lump instead of the entire breast.

3. You may be more likely to get breast cancer if family members had it. Your chance of getting breast cancer could be higher if someone else in your family had the cancer. If your mother, daughter or sister had breast cancer, your risk could be nearly double. Keep in mind, however, that you can also get breast cancer even if no one in your family has ever had it.

4. The older you are, the higher your risk of breast cancer. You can get breast cancer at any age, but it’s more likely to happen as you get older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that most breast cancers happen in women over 50. The American Cancer Society® suggests starting yearly breast cancer screenings between ages 40 to 44.

5. Besides age and family history, there are other things that may increase your risk. According to the CDC, factors that may raise your risk of breast cancer are dense breasts, having breast cancer in the past, radiation treatment of the chest or breasts, starting your period before age 12 or starting menopause after age 55. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors.

6. Mammograms are quick and easy. Getting a mammogram usually takes only 30 minutes or less. Most places that provide screenings offer a choice of appointment times so you can select a time that’s most convenient for you. You might be able to get a screening during your lunch hour, before or after work, or on the weekend.

Screening mammograms performed at Anderson Radiology generally take less than 30 minutes – less time than a typical doctor’s office visit. If you would like to schedule a mammogram, please call us at 864.225.6286 or click the button below and complete the form. A representative will contact you to collect additional information and arrange your appointment.