What can I do to prevent breast cancer?
Get a mammogram every year. While knowing and addressing the behaviors that may put you at risk is important, this doesn’t guarantee you will not develop the disease. Regular mammograms are your best defense against breast cancer. A mammogram is a low dose x-ray that detects microscopic lumps and can catch the disease in its early and most treatable stages. By having regular mammograms, you will be able to catch the cancer long before it affects your health.
” The answer to the first question is easy for women aged 50-69: Yes! You should get a mammogram at least every two years. Having regular mammograms has been shown to reduce deaths from breast cancer in many studies. Health organizations in Canada and many other countries all agree that screening is recommended in this age group. And don’t forget – the greatest value or screening is greatest if women get screened regularly. Screen Test, the Alberta Cancer Board’s breast screening program, has a mobile mammography screening service for rural communities throughout the province, and will be coming to a community near you soon. For women in their forties the answer is not quite as clear. Some studies have shown that mammography screening is beneficial in this age group, while other studies have shown no benefit. Women between 40 and 49 should talk with their doctor about the pros and cons of mammograms and decide whether or not to be screened based on their own situation. In 2001, there w
• Perform a breast self exam once a month around 5-7 days after the start of your menstrual cycle. • Women between the ages of 20 and 39 should have a breast exam by their health care provider at least every three years. • The American Medical Association and American Cancer Society recommend women age 40 or above have an annual mammogram. • Women under age 40 do not need to have a routine mammogram unless recommended by their physician.
