Regular breast cancer screenings are essential
Expert
Jessica Malatay Rivera: Infection disease epidemiologist, science communicator, DrPh student, Johns Hopkins Public Health
Question
Should women get an annual mammogram?
Reality
Yes! 100%.
As one out of every eight women will develop breast cancer—the second most common cancer in women—annual screenings are essential, beginning at age 40.
Currently, breast cancer rates are increasing at 2% every year, and Black women have a 40% higher risk of dying from it than white women.
40 is the recommended age to start annual mammograms. Note: this might be different if there is personal or family history of genetic mutations or breast cancer. Talk to your provider about when to schedule yours.
Mammograms or breast x-ray, use low dose radiation to find changes or abnormalities in breast tissue.
Flattening the breast can feel uncomfortable, for around 10 seconds per image. The whole procedure [usually 4 images] should take less than 30 minutes.
Try to avoid scheduling your mammogram when breast tissue is most tender [week before menstrual cycle] and if you’ve recently had a COVID-19 vaccine. [enlarged lymph nodes can throw off the results]
Avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, or lotions near your breast as these can interfere with image results.
