Yes, You Need a Mammogram Every Year: Debunking the Myths

Mammograms are screenings that identify 87% of breast cancer cases every year. Even though mammograms are considered the best and most effective way to detect breast cancer early, confusion remains on how often to get one.

Radiologist Dr. Jason Shames helps us debunk the myths.

Myth #1: I don’t need a mammogram every year.

“For people 40 and over, we recommend a mammogram every year,” says Dr. Shames. “Studies have shown that screening for breast cancer annually gives us the best chances of finding cancer early. This is so important because we know that patients have the best chances for long-term cure, with the least amount of treatment, when breast cancer is found early.”

Myth #2: I don’t have to get a mammogram because I don’t have a family history of breast cancer.

Breast cancer affects one in eight women. “Over 80% of patients we diagnose each year don’t have a family history of breast cancer or any symptoms,” says Dr. Shames. “While family history can increase one’s risk for breast cancer, the two most common risk factors for breast cancer are being born female and getting older. If you feel a lump in the breast that is getting bigger from month to month, have persistent breast pain lasting longer than a month or see skin changes or clear or bloody nipple discharge, let your physician know.”

Myth #3: I shouldn’t be concerned about breast cancer until I turn 40.

“While the age to start routine screening mammogram is 40, we recommend you undergo a cancer risk assessment when you’re 25 to determine what screening tests are most appropriate for you and when they should begin,” says Dr. Shames.

If you have a family history of breast cancer or a history of chest radiation therapy between ages 10 and 30, talk with your physician. “It’s important to have these conversations early so your doctor can create a roadmap for wellness and prevention,” says Dr. Shames.

Myth #4: Mammograms aren’t accurate.

For someone at average risk, mammograms have an 87% chance of detecting breast cancer. “The high sensitivity and specificity of screening mammography make it such an effective screening tool. However, it does have limitations,” says Dr. Shames.

“The sensitivity of a mammogram can drop to 40-50% for people with extremely dense breast tissue,” explains Dr. Shames. “This is why those with dense breasts should consider supplemental screening with tools like a breast ultrasound.” Along with a mammogram, a whole breast ultrasound can bring the screening sensitivity up to 77%.

Myth #5: A mammogram will expose me to an unsafe level of radiation.

“The amount of radiation your body and breast tissue experience after a lifetime of screening mammogram is less than many people are exposed to outside of a medical setting, depending on where they live, their job and their travel habits,” explains Dr. Shames. “In addition, the technologists performing your exam are specially trained to minimize discomfort and the amount of radiation needed to provide a high-quality exam.”

Learn more at jeffersonhealth.org/livingwell, or schedule a breast cancer screening at jeffersonhealthscreenings.com/mammo.