What is a breast cancer screening?
A breast cancer screening is a test that looks for early signs of cancer in breast tissue. Finding cancer early can help make treatment more effective and less invasive.
Types of breast cancer
- Mammogram: This is a specialized low dose x-ray imaging technique to see the inside the breasts and helps find small signs of cancer before you feel any changes.
- Other tests: Sometimes, your provider may also use ultrasound or MRI tests to take a closer look if needed.
Who should get screened?
- Women with average risk, 40 to 74: Many healthcare providers recommend a screening mammogram every two years.
- Women at higher risk: If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting screenings earlier or having additional tests.
What to expect during breast cancer screening?
- Mammogram: During a mammogram, the breast is pressed between two plates to spread out the tissue. This helps get a clearer X-ray picture and lowers the amount of radiation needed
- Additional tests: Follow-up tests may be needed if anything out of the ordinary is found.
FAQ: Breast cancer screening
- Normal: Nothing out of the ordinary was found. Continue with recommended screening exams.
- Abnormal: Mammography can find different problems in the breast. These problems might include small calcium deposits, lumps, or changes in the breast tissue. Calcium deposits can sometimes be an early sign of breast cancer or otherissues. Lumps can be either non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Changes in breast tissue night mean there are abnormalities. Your provider will talk about any findings with you and discuss next steps.
Most health plans, including yours, cover breast cancer screenings at no extra cost when you visit an in-network provider. Check your benefits to see what is included.
Preventive versus diagnostic: what’s the difference?
- Preventive screenings are done when you have no symptoms but are of a certain age. They are always fully covered.
- Diagnostic mammograms are used when there are breast symptoms like a lump, nipple discharge, or breast pain, or if a screening mammogram shows something unusual. It gives more detailed images to look closer at the area of concern.
Please discuss all diagnostic tests with your provider, as you may be required to pay a share of these costs. Also, verify that your provider's imaging center of choice is in network to avoid additional costs.
Establish care with a primary care provider
The power of prevention
Prioritize your wellbeing by staying on top of your breast cancer screenings. Talk to your primary care provider about how often and when to be screened.
Next steps
- Schedule your screening: Don’t wait. Have a discussion with your provider if you are due for a screening.
- Stay informed: Regular screenings can catch changes early and help you take charge of your health.