The Importance of Mammograms for Women Over 40
Breast cancer affects one in eight women in their lifetimes. Research indicates that mammograms can detect breast cancer up to two years before it becomes physically noticeable. This underscores the necessity of screening, particularly for early detection.
Having just turned 40 and after a discussion with my doctor, I opted to schedule my first mammogram at the Swedish Breast Imaging Center in Seattle.
After changing into a gown and reviewing my medical history, my technologist, Michelle Reader, guided me through the procedure.
“To begin, we’ll take four images—two from each breast,” Reader explained. “It may feel like I’m pulling on your skin and breast.”
Over the next ten minutes, I was positioned in various ways. Uncomfortable? Perhaps, but thankfully, it wasn’t painful.
“You’ll feel a lot of pressure. It’s quite different from what you might expect, but hopefully you’ll come away thinking, ‘That wasn’t so bad,’” Reader reassured me.
According to Imaging Manager Laura Roberts, women at average risk should generally start yearly screenings after turning 40.
“Skipping a screening mammogram won’t make any issues disappear,” Roberts cautioned. “It just pushes back the diagnosis.”
Roberts emphasized that early detection can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 40%. Dr. Maryanne Dubard-Gault added that understanding your family history is crucial. It’s essential to consider all factors—both significant and minor—that could contribute to increased risk.
“Think of it in terms of two categories: the major risk factors and the minor ones,” said Dubard-Gault. “They all matter, as they can accumulate into a bigger concern.”
Factors like dense breast tissue, a history of smoking or drinking, and not having given birth can increase risk. Meanwhile, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or genetic predispositions are particularly significant.
While I don’t have any family history of breast cancer, my husband’s experience with cancer at 38 has made me want to take charge of my health. After the exam, I’m told I should expect results within one to two weeks. Reader also mentioned that there’s a chance I might be called back for further screening, which is common and doesn’t necessarily mean there’s cancer.
“Most of what we examine turns out to be nothing abnormal, but we want to ensure we don’t miss anything,” Reader explained. “If something in your initial mammogram raises concerns, try not to panic.”
According to the American Cancer Society, fewer than 10% of women who are recalled for further tests are diagnosed with cancer.
Reader noted that results often appear on patient portals, like MyChart, before the doctors have a chance to review them. I received my results a week and a half post-exam, which showed no abnormalities and confirmed a negative result for breast cancer, with a recommendation to return in a year.
