Mammogram vs. Breast Ultrasound: How Do They Differ?
Mammograms offer you and your physician a more complete picture of your breast tissue than an ultrasound can. Learn why — and what to expect with this kind of breast cancer screening — here.
What Is the Right Age to Get a Mammogram?
Breast cancer affects approximately one in eight American women during their lifetime. When detected early through regular mammograms, the five-year survival rate is more than 99%. Understanding when to begin screening is essential for maintaining breast health, even though discussions about mammograms can sometimes feel uncomfortable or nerve-wracking.
At Cullman Internal Medicine in Cullman, Alabama, our dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and diagnostic technicians provides comprehensive breast health services in a supportive environment. We believe in creating personalized screening plans based on individual risk factors and medical history, ensuring that each patient receives the appropriate care at the right time.
Here, we break down important factors to consider when determining the right time to start mammogram screenings.
Age 40 is the standard starting point, but it’s not absolute
Most medical organizations recommend women begin regular mammogram screenings at age 40. However, this timeline may vary depending on personal risk factors. Some women may benefit from starting earlier, particularly those with a strong family history of breast cancer or known genetic mutations.
Your risk factors influence screening decisions
Our approach considers several important elements when making recommendations:
- Family history of breast cancer
- Personal history of breast issues
- Genetic predisposition (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations)
- Breast density
- Previous radiation therapy to the chest
The team at Cullman Internal Medicine reviews these risk factors to determine if you need to start screening earlier or more frequently than standard recommendations suggest.
We create personalized screening plans
When you visit our Cullman office, we discuss your specific risk factors and medical history to determine the optimal screening schedule. This personalized approach ensures that screening begins at the most appropriate time for each patient.
Digital mammography offers clearer results
Our state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment provides clearer images with less radiation than conventional systems. This technology allows our experienced team to detect potential abnormalities at earlier stages when treatment is most effective.
Your comfort is our priority
Our compassionate technicians take extra care to ensure comfort throughout the approximate 20-minute procedure. We explain each step and answer all questions to alleviate concerns.
Different mammograms serve different purposes
We provide both screening mammograms for routine checkups and diagnostic mammograms when specific concerns arise. Our radiologists carefully analyze all images, looking for any abnormalities that might require further investigation.
We encourage our patients to be proactive about breast health, and regularly scheduled mammograms are a critical tool in early detection. Call the Cullman Internal Medicine team today or schedule an appointment online to take this important step in protecting your health.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Who Should Have a Stress Test and How Often?
A stress test falls outside routine physical health screenings, but it’s a valuable tool when specific heart-related symptoms arise. Learn when it might be right for you here.