Get a Mammogram

Breast cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. The good news is that most women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram – the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

Guidelines. If you’re over 40, here are the guidelines: As of October 20, 2015, the American Cancer Society recommends that women over the age of 45 with an average risk of breast cancer get a mammogram every year until age 54, then every other year for as long as you are healthy and likely to live another 10 years. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests getting a mammogram every two years, starting at age 50 and continuing until age 74. Discuss with your doctor which plan is right for you.