A mature African-American woman in her 40s wearing a hospital gown, getting her annual mammogram. She is being helped by a technologist, a blond woman wearing scrubs. The focus is on the patient, who is looking toward the camera.

Mammograms and Breast Exams

Breast health begins with being aware of changes in your breast for any lumps or swelling. Breast cancer can start in one or both breasts. Knowing whether the breast lumps are cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign) is important. Breast cancer risk increases with age, so getting a breast exam is important.

Types of Breast Exams:

  • A clinical breast exam is where the doctor or nurse examines the breast for any breast lumps, differences in size, rashes, or dimpling of the breast and/or nipples. 
  • Mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast. Currently, this is the best way to find breast cancer early. It is recommended that women between 50 to 74 years old and at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years. 
  • Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses magnets and radio waves to take pictures of the breast. Breast MRI and mammograms are typically used to screen women at high risk for getting breast cancer. 
Green stamp, Elderplan Wellness Incentive

This screening is part of our Elderplan Wellness Incentive program. Read more to see if you are eligible to participate!

Elderplan strongly encourages all members to get their preventive screenings. Early detection and intervention result in more positive outcomes. 

Your team at Elderplan can help you schedule necessary screenings to allow for early detection. Contact Elderplan Member Services at 1-800-353-3765 [TTY: 711], 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week- to get started. 

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