Breast Cancer: What's The Right Age To Start Mammography?
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According to experts, women should begin annual mammogram screenings at the age of 40. However, this may vary depending on individual risk factors
Breast cancer cases are rising rapidly among women in India. Every year, around 20 lakh women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 1 lakh lose their lives to the disease. The best way to detect and treat breast cancer early is through a mammogram — an X-ray test that helps spot cancer even before symptoms appear.
But when should women start getting mammograms, and how often should they be done? Dr Laura Dean, a diagnostic radiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, has shared some important insights.
When Should Women Start Getting Mammograms?
According to Dr Dean, the most widely accepted recommendation is that women should begin annual mammogram screenings from the age of 40. However, this can vary based on individual risk factors. Women at a higher risk may be advised by their doctor to start screenings earlier.
Recently, the US Preventive Services Task Force suggested getting a mammogram every two years from the age of 40. But in the US, where breast cancer cases are higher, annual screenings are still encouraged. Dr Dean says early detection through yearly mammograms can save more lives, with strong evidence supporting this approach.
Do Men Need Mammograms Too?
While breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop the disease — although rarely. Dr Dean clarifies that this guidance mainly applies to women. However, men should still perform regular self-examinations. Any noticeable lump, swelling, or change in the chest area should be reported to a doctor immediately. Even individuals who have undergone breast removal are not completely free from the risk.
Who Should Get Screened Early?
Certain women need to start screening before 40. Dr Dean recommends that all women consult a doctor by the age of 30 to assess their risk. Early mammograms may be advised if there's a family history of breast cancer, gene mutations such as BRCA, dense breast tissue, or any underlying health conditions. In such cases, doctors may recommend starting screenings earlier than usual.
Why Are Mammograms So Important?
Globally, breast cancer claims over 6.85 lakh lives every year. In the United States, it is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women aged 35 to 54. Regular mammograms are the first line of defence against this deadly disease.
Dr Dean stresses that screening allows for early detection, which can significantly improve chances of survival. A mammogram can identify unusual changes in breast tissue, prompting further tests like diagnostic mammograms or biopsies to confirm if it is cancer. Catching the disease early allows for timely treatment, potentially saving lives.
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