Una mujer afroamericana madura de unos 40 años con una bata de hospital y haciéndose su mamografía anual. La ayuda una tecnóloga, una mujer rubia que lleva una bata. El foco está en el paciente, que está mirando hacia la cámara.

The Importance of Having a Mammogram and Breast Exams

Maintaining good health includes being aware of changes in your breasts, such as lumps or swelling by performing regular self-exams at home, having your breasts examined as part of your annual PCP visit and having mammograms.  

If you notice a change, you should speak with your doctor immediately.  Breast cancer can start in one or both breasts. If a lump is detected during a physical exam or through a mammogram, further testing will be required to determine if the lump is cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign).

Your risk of breast cancer increases as you age, which is why regular breast exams and mammograms are necessary. Women aged 40 to 74 years who have an average risk of breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years.1 It is recommended that women at high risk be screened more frequently. 

In addition to age, other risk factors include race and ethnicity. Studies have shown that White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer as compared to Black, Hispanic, and Asian women.2 However, Black women are more likely to face aggressive, advanced-stage breast cancer at a younger age. If you fall into a high-risk group, please ask your doctor how often you should be screened.

The good news? Regular breast exams and mammograms can identify cancer early, significantly reducing the risk of dying from the disease. 

Elderplan makes it easier for you to stay on top of your health by offering mammograms and other wellness screenings to our members at no cost. We also reward members for completing many preventive screenings through our Elderplan Wellness Incentive Program. 

Early detection can lead to earlier treatment, more options, and better outcomes. Don’t wait—take the first step toward protecting your health.

Schedule your mammogram today!

  1. Final Recommendation Statement: Screening for Breast Cancer | United States Preventive Services Taskforce – Updated on April 30, 2024[↩]
  2. Yedjou CG, Sims JN, Miele L, Noubissi F, Lowe L, Fonseca DD, Alo RA, Payton M, Tchounwou PB. Health and Racial Disparity in Breast Cancer. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2019;1152:31-49. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-20301-6_3. PMID: 31456178; PMCID: PMC6941147.Health and Racial Disparity in Breast Cancer – PMC[↩]

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