All Women Recommended to Start Getting Regular Mammograms at Age 40

10/17/2023

Early Detection and Treatment for Breast Cancer Starts with Screenings

KIRKSVILLE, Mo., October 17, 2023 – The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends women who are at average risk for breast cancer get screening mammograms every two years starting at age 40. The recommendation is in response to the increase in breast cancer diagnoses in younger women and high mortality rates in Black women.

Women with strong family histories of breast cancer, African Americans and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent should have a risk assessment at age 30 to see if a screening mammogram is needed before they are 40. Women who were previously diagnosed with breast cancer are recommended to be screened with magnetic resonance imaging, an MRI.

“The best chance for survival of any cancer is early diagnosis and treatment,” said Dr. Tysen Petre, primary care physician at Northeast Regional Medical Group. “Mammograms can detect cancer before symptoms, such as lumps, dimpling, discoloration are noted. Detection before spreading of the disease occurs is an important step that can increase the likelihood of effective treatment and recovery.”

Here in Missouri, over 4,900 new female breast cancer cases were reported in 2020, the most recent year data is available.

Early Detection Saves Lives

While mortality from breast cancer has declined in recent years, it remains the second most common cancer causing death in women. Lung cancer is the most common.

Fortunately, a screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. Northeast Regional Medical Center is encouraging women to schedule their screening now, because when breast cancer is detected early, life-saving treatment can begin right away.

Nearly all breast cancers can be treated successfully if found early. The most effective way to detect breast cancer at an early, treatable stage is to have regular mammograms. Since mammography became widely used in the 1980s, the U.S. breast cancer death rate in women has dropped 43 percent through 2020.

Northeast Regional Medical Center now offers 3D mammography exams. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, 3D exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, and also decrease the number of women asked to return for additional testing.

To schedule a mammogram, call 660-785-1279. Or, to find a primary care doctor or OB/GYN, visit northeastspecialtygroup.com. Same day primary care appointments may be available by calling 660-327-3363.

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