How often do I need a mammogram?

Detecting breast cancer is easier than ever with technological advances like 3D mammography. And women over 40 should schedule one.

With a clearer look at the breast, 3D mammography helps radiologists detect cancer sooner and more accurately.

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“Mammograms are one of the best tools to detect breast cancer early,” said JRMC Radiologist Dr. Madhusudhan Reddy. “Technology has advanced so that 3D mammography allows us to identify and characterize individual structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue.

The healthcare industry wants women to find breast and cervical cancer early as breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women. Early detection can mean the difference between having a lumpectomy and a mastectomy or needing chemotherapy.

“It can be anxiety-producing to schedule and get your mammogram done. Taking a day or an afternoon for yourself to focus on your health is a great way to practice ‘self-care.’ Schedule something fun to do afterward so that you actually look forward to your healthy days.” Medical Oncologist Dr. Shelby Terstriep recommends.

Experts recommend women age 40 and over receive a regular mammogram; however, if a family history of breast cancer exists, this may need to begin earlier.

American College of Radiology recommends:

ages 40-74 of average risk to schedule a mammogram annually
age 40 and under or 75 and older should speak to their primary care provider about their risk and care plan

It can take up to three years sometimes to feel a lump in a breast. With mammograms, physicians are able to detect cancer earlier – when it is easier to treat. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent.

There is no excuse for women not to receive a 3D mammogram as part of a basic screening. This is why Jamestown Regional Medical Center is holding No Excuses events on Oct. 20 and Nov. 9. These events provide women the opportunity to receive a 3D mammogram, as well as a cervical cancer screening, all in one quick visit at no cost to the patient.

Age 40+? Schedule your 3D mammogram direct: (701) 952-5348.

Jamestown Regional Medical Center, in partnership with Sanford Health, opened the JRMC Cancer Center in 2019. The JRMC Cancer Center serves 100 people from Sanford and other healthcare organizations in the Jamestown area each month, saving more than 160,000 miles of travel each year.