Breast cancer screening is a powerful weapon in the battle against this common disease. Yet, with various screening recommendations available, understanding when and how frequently to undergo these tests can sometimes be confusing. At Great Lakes Medical Imaging in Buffalo, NY, our aim is to equip you with the necessary information to make enlightened decisions regarding your breast health.

The Significance of Screening

The primary goal of breast cancer screening is to identify the disease before any symptoms start to manifest. Early detection allows for immediate commencement of treatment, thus enhancing the chances of successful outcomes.

Tailored Guidelines for Different Demographics

General guidelines for breast cancer screening exist, but these might differ based on your risk factors, age, and overall health condition.

Women at Average Risk

For women at an average risk - those without a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation known to elevate breast cancer risk - the American Cancer Society suggests:

• Age 40 - 44: Women have the option to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.
• Age 45 - 54: Women should undergo mammograms every year.
• Age 55 and older: Women can opt to have mammograms every two years or continue with the annual screening.

Women at High Risk

Women at high risk are advised to undergo both an MRI and a mammogram annually, typically starting at age 30. This category includes women who:

• Possess a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
• Have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation but have not had genetic testing themselves
• Received radiation therapy to the chest between the ages of 10 and 30
• Have certain genetic syndromes

Other Screening Techniques

While mammography is the mainstay for breast cancer screening, other tests like Breast Ultrasound and Breast MRI may be used in combination with mammography, especially for women at high risk.

Guidelines are a Starting Point

These guidelines serve as a reference point, but the final decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, taking into account your individual risk factors.

At Great Lakes Medical Imaging, we are dedicated to providing superior imaging services, including 3D and Digital Mammography, to the Western New York community. If you have any queries or need to schedule a screening, please Contact us today or give us a call at (716) 836-4646.

To gain more insights into breast health and screening guidelines, please visit our blog. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge needed to prioritize your health and make well-informed decisions.

Sources:

• American Cancer Society. (2021). American Cancer Society Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer
• American Cancer Society. (2019). Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2019-2020
• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Breast cancer screening: Women conflicted by changing guidelines