Live it Out! Breast Cancer Awareness Screening

When it comes to your annual mammogram, your excuses are over.

If you are a woman over 45 and not up to date with your annual mammogram, it’s time to get over the many excuses that are used to avoid this yearly screening

Excuse 1

“It’s too expensive.”
Actually, your mammogram is free if you are a woman over 40 years of age and have no symptoms of breast cancer. No copays. No deductibles.

Excuse 2

“It’s too painful.”
Not true. Your screening may be a bit uncomfortable, but that discomfort usually lasts only a few seconds.

Excuse 3

“I don’t want to know I have breast cancer and then die.”
The survival rate for breast cancer diagnosed at an early stage is 98%! And having a mammogram is the best way to detect the disease early. The sooner you know the better!

Excuse 4

“I’m safe because breast cancer doesn’t run in my family.”
Consider this: More than 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.

Excuse 5

“My last mammogram was negative so I can skip a year or two.”
Not a good idea. Changes in your breast can happen quickly. And the earlier the detection, the greater is the chance of a successful treatment.

New Mammography Screening Guidelines

The american cancer society recently announced new mammography screening guidelines for women with an average risk for breast cancer.

  • Women ages 40 to 44: An annual mammogram is optional.
  • Women ages 45 to 54: A mammogram every year.
  • Women ages 55 and older: A mammogram every two years or every year if they choose.

Women who have a high risk for breast cancer should have both an MRI and a mammogram. Talk to your personal physician for more information.

Source: American Cancer Society

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