Mammograms are one of the most effective tools that we have for diagnosing breast cancer in its earliest stages. Because of this, you must receive annual screening mammography. The Alamogordo Imaging Center will provide you with all the information you need to understand the benefits of mammograms, where and how to schedule your screening, and what to expect during the process. Because there are specific guidelines on when and how often you should get screened, the Alamogordo Imaging Center will provide you with this information. The following are just some of the many reasons why getting a mammogram in Alamogordo on an annual basis ought to be at the very top of your to-do list.
Q&A On Mammograms
The first thing to know is that mammograms are nothing to fear. They’re more of a precautionary measure—and yet there’s no question that they save lives. Still, they can be scary and confusing—especially if you’ve never had one before. Here are some answers to common questions about what exactly a mammogram is and how it can help keep you healthy. And remember: you should schedule your mammogram screening in Alamogordo for April or October (that’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month!) at Mammography Alamogordo! If you need directions or have any other questions about where we’re located, please contact us.
How Often Should You Get A Mammogram?
If you are a woman between the ages of 40 and 44, your physician or nurse practitioner may recommend that you get an annual mammogram. After age 45, it is recommended that women get a mammogram every year or two. Women with increased risk for breast cancer should talk to their doctor about when to start screening mammograms. Some women can choose to have a yearly exam instead of a mammogram; however, some doctors recommend that all women should begin having yearly screenings once they reach the age of 40 even if there is no family history of breast cancer or other known risk factors for breast cancer. A physician may determine which type of exam will be best depending on personal risk factors, such as family history and medication use.
What Kind Of Mammogram Do I Need?
Diagnostic mammograms, screening mammograms, and digital breast tomosynthesis are the three distinct varieties of mammograms (also known as 3D mammography). Based on the risk factors you present, your doctor will decide which type is most appropriate for you. At first, this might appear to be confusing, but please don’t worry about it; in most instances, it’s very straightforward. Diagnostic and screening mammography both require a woman to have an x-ray taken before their examination. This is done so that the woman’s physician can look for changes in or around the breasts that aren’t detectable with a simple visual examination. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) mammography generates numerous film images. But digital breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, generates a single image that seems to be sliced in the middle like a piece of meat.
When Should I Schedule My First Mammogram?
At the age of forty, the majority of women should first start having regular mammograms. The American Cancer Society advises that all women obtain a baseline mammogram. And then continue to get tested annually up until the age of 55. After that, they should stop getting screened. After the age of 55, you might wish to change the frequency of your screening exams to every other year. Or you might want to discuss the optimal screening interval with your physician. (This comparison of the results from your most recent mammography with those from earlier ones is what’s known as a trend test.) If you have a higher risk of breast cancer due to a family history of the disease or health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, hormone replacement medication, or smoking, your doctor may recommend that you start getting mammogram screening in Farmington before you turn 40 years old.
What Happens During A Mammogram?
Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its earlier, more curable stages, which is one of their primary benefits. A mammogram is a procedure in which a technologist examines X-ray images of both breasts in search of abnormalities or variations. After that, the radiologist will assess those images. And provide a recommendation regarding whether or not additional diagnostic testing is required. Patients do not experience any pain or discomfort during mammograms. Because they are performed by trained medical professionals and not by the patient themselves. Because of developments in technology, many locations now provide instant results on-site. Which makes scheduling easier and removes any anxiety associated with the process. Mammogram screenings are an essential component of general health maintenance; hence, you should immediately consult your primary care physician about scheduling a mammogram.
Can I Have An MRI Instead Of A Mammogram?
You may wish to seek an MRI rather than a mammogram if you are concerned about an abnormality in your breasts. Or if you have a high risk of developing breast cancer due to a mutation in the BRCA gene. An MRI can detect anomalies in tissue through the use of magnetic fields and radio frequencies. Mammograms employ X-rays. Both kinds of examinations can typically be performed at the same time in most imaging centers; however, your physician will decide which one is more appropriate for you.
It is helpful to know that there is no difference in the diagnostic accuracy of a mammogram. And an MRI to persuade your insurance company to cover an MRI rather than a mammogram. On the other hand, one of the advantages of getting an MRI is that it can determine whether or not cancer has migrated from the breast to other parts of your body or neighboring lymph nodes.
What Can Happen If I Delay Having My First Mammogram?
A higher likelihood of developing breast cancer is associated with exposure to multiple risk factors. These factors include age, family history, race, gender, and the number of pregnancies that a woman has had. If any or all of these risk factors apply to you and you have not yet undergone screening mammography for breast cancer. You must do so as soon as possible. If a woman waits until she is 40 years old to get her first mammogram. And then continues to get one every year after that. And her risk of developing breast cancer by the time she is 70 years old is approximately 5 percent. This is a significantly higher risk than if she began having her annual screenings at the age of 30 when the risk was only 10 percent.
How Much Does It Cost To Have A Mammogram?
The cost of a mammogram ranges from $80 to $150, and this price does not include any additional fees for radiologist evaluation. The vast majority of mammography facilities provide discounted rates to those who are uninsured or have modest incomes. If you do not currently have health insurance, you should inquire with a provider in your area about the possibility of receiving a discount. Additionally, several service providers offer free. Or subsidized mammograms to female patients who satisfy certain requirements. Such as being over 40 years old. Call the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program of the CDC. And speak with a representative there to find out. And if you are eligible for screenings that are provided at no cost or at a reduced cost.
