DUBOIS — Mammograms save lives. While screenings do not prevent breast cancer, they can help doctors find it as early as possible when it’s easier to treat.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Mary Washington Healthcare Screening Mammogram Guidelines for Breast Cancer The Mary Washington Regional Cancer Center's breast cancer clinical team has come to a consensus on screening mammogram recommendations after reviewing guidelines from several professional medical societies including the American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Since screening guidelines for mammography can vary and sometimes provide conflicting information, our specific recommendations are as follows: Screening recommendations for women who are at average risk for breast cancer: Annual screening mammograms should start at age 40. Mammogram screening should continue annually if a woman is expected to live another 5-10 years. Self-exams should be considered based on a woman's comfort and level of anxiety. Annual exams by doctors should