Most women ages 40 to 74 should get a mammogram every 2 years
Mammograms can find breast cancer early, before symptoms appear
People with higher risk may need screening earlier or more often
Breast cancer screening helps find cancer before symptoms appear. Early detection can make treatment more effective and improve outcomes.
Most women ages 40 to 74 who are at average risk should get a mammogram every two years. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your screening plan may be different.
Mammograms save lives. A large study of 37,079 women done in 2023 found that compared to women who had no mammogram screenings, women who got regular routine mammograms had a 66% lower risk of dying from breast cancer
Dr. Hannah Phillips, M.D.Teladoc Health
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States. The risk increases with age, and most cases are diagnosed after age 50.
Breast cancer occurs more often in non-Hispanic White women. However, Black women have an increased risk of death from the disease. Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or inherited gene changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, can increase your risk.
Some risk factors can be influenced by lifestyle choices. Being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, breastfeeding and drinking less alcohol are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer.
It’s important to know that breast cancer can occur even if you don’t have major risk factors. Men can also develop breast cancer, although it is rare.
Breast cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. That’s one reason routine screening is so important. Mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer screenings.
A mammogram is the most commonly recommended screening test for breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to create images of the breast. Mammograms can find abnormal breast tissue, including tumors that may be too small to feel.
During a mammogram, you stand in front of an X-ray machine. A technician places each breast between two plates that briefly press the breast flat to take clear images. Pictures are taken from different angles. The test may feel uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few moments.
After the images are reviewed by a radiologist, you will usually receive your results within a few days.
Depending on your risk and health history, your doctor may also recommend other imaging tests, such as a breast ultrasound or MRI.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women ages 40 to 74 who are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years.
If you have a family history of breast cancer or other factors that raise your risk, your healthcare provider may recommend a different screening schedule. A Teladoc Health primary care provider can help you determine which screening plan is right for you.
Routine breast cancer screening is not typically recommended for men. If you have concerns about breast cancer risk, talk with your healthcare provider.
Most health insurance plans are required to cover routine mammograms, so there may be no out-of-pocket cost. Check with your insurance provider for details about your coverage.
Most women at average risk should begin mammogram screening at age 40 and continue through age 74. Screening recommendations may differ for people with higher risk.
Women at average risk should get a mammogram every two years. Your provider may recommend a different schedule based on your personal risk factors.
Most health insurance plans are required to cover routine mammograms. Contact your insurance company to confirm your benefits.
A Teladoc Health provider can review your results, answer questions and help you decide on next steps. If needed, they can also refer you to our Expert Medical Opinion service.
A Teladoc Health primary care provider can help you understand your risk, recommend the right screening plan and answer questions about breast cancer screening. They can also help connect you with a screening location near you.
Breast cancer screening can help find cancer early, often before symptoms appear. Most women ages 40 to 74 should get a mammogram every two years, while those with higher risk may need a different screening plan. Talk with a healthcare provider about the screening schedule that is right for you.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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