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At what age should I get my first mammogram?

By Anonymous February 2, 2015 - 12:37pm
 
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Dear Anon,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community! This is a question many women in our community often ask.

 

It's a common debate as to what is the "right" age to get your first mammogram. Women previously were advised to start mammography screening at age 40, but that has now changed to 50 years old. 

In November 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its screening recommendations and said that women of average risk for breast cancer could wait until age 50 to start getting mammograms and then follow up only every two years, rather than annually.

On the other hand, studies have proven that women in their 40s get a 30% reduction in [breast cancer] mortality when they get routine mammograms.

You also need to consider if you are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer-for instance if it runs in your family.

Talk with your doctor and discuss your family's medical history and ask for his or her recommendation.

Once you decide when to get your first mammogram, it's a good idea to schedule your exam in the month of your birthday to make it easier to remember.

Here is a great article a member shared about her first mammogram.

 

https://www.empowher.com/breast-conditions/content/first-mammogram

Anon, was this helpful?

Best,

Kristin

February 2, 2015 - 2:24pm
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