News> Health Breast cancer screening from age of 40 could save lives: Here is all you need to know about mammograms
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women, globally. While a lot of emphasis is given on awareness about the disease, self-examination of breasts, and breast cancer screenings, according to the WHO, 2.1 million women fall prey to the disease, every year. However, researchers have found a way to save hundreds of lives lost due to breast cancer. Researchers suggest that if women in their 40s were invited for breast cancer screening, hundreds of lives could be saved each year.
According to a report in the DailyMail, the NHS offers women aged 50 to 71 a mammogram every three years. However, according to a study, if the lower limit of age is reduced to 40, it could prevent upto 300 deaths in a year, mostly in women aged 40-50.
The trial was published in The Lancet Oncology. It involved 160,000 British women who were followed over 23 years.
What is a mammogram?
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, defines mammogram as an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use these to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best way to detect early breast cancer, as they can help detect them up to three years before it can actually be felt.
Who should get a mammogram?
According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force, women who are 50 to 74 years of age are recommended to get mammograms every two years. Women who are 40 to 49 years of age should also talk to their doctors on how often to get a mammogram. However, according to the findings based on the study, even women who are above the age of 40 should get mammograms every two years, especially if there exists a history of breast cancer in your family.
Why are mammograms important?
As stated before, mammograms are one of the best ways to diagnose breast cancer and catch the disease early. This helps reduce the chances of the cancer advancing and spreading to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment is one of the main factors when it comes to the treatment of cancer, and breast cancer is no different. With the help of mammograms, doctors are able to detect cancer early, treat it, and reduce the risk of death due to the disease.
How can you get a mammogram?
Women older than 20 years should consider talking to their medical professional about breast cancer screening. Apart from self-examination of breasts, they should consult a doctor on how often, and when should they get a mammogram. You can get a mammogram with a consultation to your doctor at any centre that provides the service.