Breast Be Safe: Don’t Delay Your Mammogram
Mammograms: They’re not fun, but their benefit is undisputable. This special breast X-ray, when done annually, can help detect breast cancer early, even before you might feel any symptoms.
For women in their 40s and 50s, the recent death of actress Shannen Doherty is reinforcing the importance of annual breast cancer screenings. Doherty, a pop culture icon in the 1990s known for her role as Brenda Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. She recently died at age 53 after the cancer spread to her brain.
Doherty spoke publicly in interviews about how a lapse in her health insurance prevented her from getting a mammogram after detecting a lump in her breast. She advocated on the importance of early detection.
The American College of Radiology recommends that all women have the option for this annual screening at age 40. Those who are considered higher risk because of family history of breast cancer or a genetic mutation should consult with their doctor about screenings before they’re 40.
Here’s a simple way to understand why mammograms matter:
A mammogram, which is non-invasive and takes just a few minutes, can find small changes or lumps that you can’t feel during self-exams. Finding potential issues early means treatment can begin sooner, leading to better health outcomes.
Having consistent mammograms is also critical. This means having your scan at the same facility from year to year. This allows the radiologist to compare prior mammograms to the current year, increasing the odds that a tiny abnormality or change is detected.
Mammograms, along with monthly self-exams done at home and a routine annual checkup with your gynecologist or primary care physician, are the best way to catch any issues early.
“The fact is, mammograms save lives,” said Danielle Fitzgerald, director of radiology at Jackson North Medical Center. “I know some women are apprehensive about them, however, there have been many technological advances in recent years. Modern mammography machines are designed for improved accuracy with minimal discomfort to the patient. Improved 3D technology, combined with specialty technologists with advanced certification in mammography, assures quality exam performance using optimized patient comfort techniques.”
Jackson Health System provides the most comprehensive breast cancer treatment, using leading-edge technology and equipment. We offer breast health services in two locations: the Roberta Orlen Chaplin Digital Breast Imaging Center/Taylor Breast Health Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and Jackson North Medical Center in North Miami Beach. Both locations offer 3D mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and risk assessment screenings. The Taylor Breast Center also offers breast MRIs, genetic testing, and a breast health clinic for women diagnosed with any breast disease.
To request an appointment, click here or call 305-585-6000.