BUILDING BREAST CANCER AWARESNESS~#3~ MAMMOGRAMS

Today, I thought I'd share the facts listed on the Breast Cancer Awareness website about mammograms. They do a great job of putting the information together in easy to understand terms.  And since this is a subject near and dear to me, it is very important to get as much information to people everywhere!  So, let's get started!

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram along with a breast exam by your doctor or nurse can find breast cancer at an early stage when it can best be treated. A mammogram does not cause cancer. Because the amount of radiation used is very low, the risk of any harm is extremely small.

What happens during a mammogram?

A mammogram is a simple test. When you go for a mammogram, the technician taking the picture will place your breast between two X-ray panels. The panels will push your breast between them to get a clear picture. You may feel a little bit of discomfort but each X-ray takes less than 1 minute.


Who should get one?


Women in their 40s and older should get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years. A woman's chance of getting breast cancer is greater as she ages.

Why should I have one?

Mammograms can save your life by finding breast cancer early. A mammogram can show cancer that is too small for you or your doctor to feel. When breast cancer is found early, you have more treatment options.


"Early detection will give you more treatment options and certainly a better chance to survive."






--Robin Chin, breast cancer survivor

How will I pay?


If you have Medicare and are aged 40 or older, Medicare pays for most of the cost of a screening mammogram every 12 months. If needed, Medicare will pay for a diagnostic mammogram at any time. There may also be low- and no-cost screening programs where you live.


Not just once, but for a lifetime. Mammograms can save lives.

How do I get a mammogram?


Ask your doctor today about a referral.

If you have Medicare, it pays for most of the cost of your mammogram once every 12 months.


Check with your insurance plan about costs and copayments.


Make an appointment with a mammography center approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Your doctor or nurse can help you find one.

When you go for your mammogram, do not wear lotions, powders, perfumes, or deodorant. They can cause shadows on the X-ray picture.

Follow up with your doctor to get the results.



Acknowledgement given to the National Cancer Institute as originator of the information provided herein, with the NCI web site www.cancer.gov as the source.  It is a great site with a lot of helpful information!  THANK YOU!

And, I thought I'd leave you with a little mammogram humor! I couldn't resist! *grin*






Take Care,
Kathleen