For many people, scheduling a mammogram can feel easy to put off—especially when life is busy or the appointment feels uncomfortable to think about. But taking this simple step is an act of care for yourself and for the people who love you. Mammograms give you and your health care team important information, and they can offer peace of mind when results are normal or help guide timely care when follow-up is needed.
Why do mammograms matter? A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used to look for signs of breast cancer, often before a lump can be felt or symptoms appear. While no screening test can prevent cancer, regular mammograms can help find breast cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective and options may be less intensive.
Early detection can save lives. Breast cancer can sometimes grow silently. Mammograms are valuable because they can detect changes in breast tissue before a person notices anything unusual. According to public health guidance, regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer and can help doctors begin treatment at an earlier stage.
One in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer during her lifetime.1 It is important to note that when breast cancer is diagnosed at an early, localized stage, the five-year survival rate is greater than 99%.2 It is also important to recognize that approximately 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.3
Getting a mammogram is quick and simple. Most appointments take about 20 minutes from start to finish. If you are at average risk for breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that you have a mammogram every year starting at age 40. If you are at higher risk, you may need to begin screenings earlier or have screenings more often. Talk with your doctor to create a screening plan that is right for you based on your personal risk factors.
If you are due for a mammogram or are unsure when to start screening, schedule a conversation with your health care provider. Ask about your personal risk, the best screening schedule for you, and whether additional imaging is recommended. By staying informed and keeping up with the screening that is right for you, you are taking a caring, proactive step toward protecting your breast health.
At UPMC Chautauqua, we use Genius 3D Mammography, which detects 41% more invasive breast cancers and reduces false positives by up to 40%. This technology lets doctors view breast tissue layer by layer, making fine details easier to see and less likely to be hidden by surrounding tissue.
Making an appointment is a simple and important step you can take for your health. Ask your physician for an order, then call to schedule the screening that is right for you. At UPMC Chautauqua, we offer screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, stereotactic and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies, and breast MRI services.
Taking time for a mammogram is a small step that can make a meaningful difference. If you have been putting it off, consider this your gentle reminder: your health is worth the appointment, and you do not have to wait until something feels wrong to check in.
Take a moment to schedule your mammogram—this simple call can be an important step in caring for yourself. To make an appointment, please call 716-664-8448.
Sources: 1 American Cancer Society, “Key Statistics for Breast Cancer”; 2 CDC, “U.S. Cancer Statistics Female Breast Cancer Stat Bite”; 3 National Breast Cancer Foundation, “Breast Cancer Facts & Stats.”