All Women Recommended to Start Getting Regular Mammograms at Age 40

10/3/2023

Early Detection and Treatment for Breast Cancer Starts with Screenings

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends women who are at average risk for breast cancer get screening mammograms every two years starting at age 40. The recommendation is in response to the increase in breast cancer diagnoses in younger women and high mortality rates in Black women.

Women with strong family histories of breast cancer, African Americans and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent should have a risk assessment at age 30 to see if a screening mammogram is needed before they are 40. Women who were previously diagnosed with breast cancer are recommended to be screened with magnetic resonance imaging, an MRI.

"A mammogram is the gold standard for breast cancer screening," said radiologist Lisa Smith, M.D. "It has been proven that breast cancer screening and early detection saves lives. The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends annual routine screening mammograms for every woman of average risk starting at age 40 years old."

Here in Mississippi, 2,141 new female breast cancer cases were reported in 2020, the most recent year data is available.

Early Detection Saves Lives

While mortality from breast cancer has declined in recent years, it remains the second most common cancer causing death in women. Lung cancer is the most common.

Fortunately, a screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. Merit Health Biloxi is encouraging women to schedule their screening now, because when breast cancer is detected early, life-saving treatment can begin right away.

Nearly all breast cancers can be treated successfully if found early. The most effective way to detect breast cancer at an early, treatable stage is to have regular mammograms. Since mammography became widely used in the 1980s, the U.S. breast cancer death rate in women has dropped 43 percent through 2020.

This month, save on your 2D and 3D mammogram screening with promotional pricing for Breast Cancer Awareness month. Visit mdsave.com/biloxi-mammo to purchase your screening, then schedule any time within the next 6 months. Bring your voucher as proof of payment.

To schedule a mammogram, call 228-314-SCAN (7226).

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