All Women Are Now Recommended to Start Mammograms at Age 40
6/8/2023
LAREDO, TX –The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that women get regular mammograms 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. Breast cancer is also the number one cause of cancer-related death in Hispanic and Black women in the U.S.
More than 20 million women in the U.S. are between the ages of 40 and 49 and are now covered under the recommendation.
“This is an important development and message for women,” mentions Cory Fernandes, D.O., board-certified family medicine physician at Primary Care Associates of Laredo. “Early detection is key, and women of all ages need to be aware and vigilant regarding the importance of prevention.”
Several risk factors have been associated with an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer. These include age (risk increases with age), personal or family history of breast cancer, specific genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), early onset of menstruation or late menopause, hormone replacement therapy, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. It is important to note that having one or more risk factors does not guarantee the development of breast cancer, and individuals without any risk factors can still be diagnosed with the disease.
Early detection plays a crucial role in improving breast cancer outcomes. Regular breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast examination (CBE) by healthcare professionals, and mammography screenings are essential to early detection.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) also recommends annual mammograms for women aged 40 and older. In contrast, women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast examination for regular health check-ups. Breast self-examination is encouraged for women to become familiar with their breasts and promptly report any changes to their healthcare provider.
Mammography is widely recognized as the most effective screening tool for breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to detect abnormal changes or growths in the breast tissue, often before they can be felt. Mammograms can help identify breast cancer at its earliest stages, when treatment options are generally more effective, and the prognosis is more favorable.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician, visit the Laredo Physician Associates website at https://bit.ly/3Cgv5Im or call (956) 796-3223.
Dr. Cory Fernandes is employed by Regional Employee Assistance Program d/b/a Primary Care Associates of Laredo.
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