age

at what age should women have a mamogram (mammogram) done, and what should i look for when doing a self exam.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear new mexico mom:  For women with average risk (no known risk factors), a baseline mammogram should be done at age 40.  Mammogram is recommended every year after that.  A clinical breast examination (one done by a health care professional) should also be done yearly.  A self breast exam is a methodical way of feeling the breast tissue.  It can be done in a circular fashion, starting at the nipple and moving the fingers around the breast tissue in circles or it can be done in a "star" fashion beginning at the nipple in the center and moving the fingers out like slicing a pie.  The purpose of self breast examination is to feel for any lumps.  Some breasts feel lumpy.  If this is the case, becoming familiar with how the breast tissue feels will help to identify any changes.  In addition, you should look at your breasts in the mirror and note any puckering or dimpling.  If you feel any abnormalities or notice anything abnormal, you should have your doctor examine you.  

[Under Forty Pam]

I believe the school of thought on baseline is beginning to change to age 35.  For example I had a baseline at 37 and microcalcifications were seen so they determined I should have them every year instead of waiting til 40 so changes in the calcifications could be observed.  Now at 39 I have breast cancer which was detected due to a mammogram.  If I had waited til 40 for a baseline they would not have had any way to notice a change plus the cancer may have been more advanced.

[Avidhiker]

Pam is right.  Baseline at 35 and then yearly from age 40 on, regardless of history/risk.  What is also stressed is monthly self exams a week after a period.  VERY IMPORTANT.  Take care.

[Venus_2006]

This is a very helpful article with everything you want to know about breast cancer and detecting breast cancer:

http://www.Welloria.com/health/Breast_Cancer_Awareness_p1.html

[Bunny711]

I thought there was a law now that Insurance carriers, will now cover at age 35, this is critical...I too surely agree that there should be a baseline at age 35, this 40 age is crazy.......so many younger woman are being saved by doing it early.

Alway always ask for it no matter whether it is covered or not, starting age 35.

[Liza55]

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