Breast Cancer: Essential Facts To Know That Could Save Your Life

Getting A Mammogram

Getting a mammogram can help detect breast cancer early and increase the odds of successful treatment. Small doses of radiation are used to perform the specialized x-ray of the breasts and can produce images of cancer two to three years before it can be physically detected. For an accurate reading, the breasts are pressed between the machine plates, and most women agree it is only an uncomfortable, rather than painful, procedure. Doctors recommend that most women, especially those who are not considered high risk, should begin getting mammograms by the age of fifty. For women who are concerned or at risk for developing breast cancer, they can get a mammogram done by the age of forty-five.

Next, find out how technology can help detect breast cancer.