Breast cancer is a serious disease that affects millions of women every year. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. While mammograms have always been recommended for women over the age of 40, recent studies have shown that starting breast cancer screenings in your 30s may be beneficial. In this blog post, we will discuss why mammograms in your 30s are important and what you need to know about them.
Firstly, early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. Catching breast cancer before it has a chance to spread can greatly increase your chances of survival. Mammograms able to detect small tumors or other abnormalities in the breast tissue which may not be palpable. This means that if you get a mammogram in your 30s and there is a suspicious area, it can be detected before it grows, spreads, or becomes problematic. Early detection means earlier treatment and a better prognosis.
Secondly, the risk of breast cancer is not limited to age. While breast cancer is more commonly found in women over 50, it can also occur in younger women. In fact, some risk factors such as having a family history of breast cancer can increase your risk for the disease regardless of your age. Therefore, starting breast cancer screenings in your 30s can help catch the disease at an earlier stage, improving your chances of survival.
Thirdly, mammograms in your 30s can serve as a baseline for future screenings. A baseline mammogram is an initial exam that is used as a point of comparison for future screenings. By establishing a baseline in your 30s, your doctor can better detect any changes in your breast tissue as you age. This is important because breast tissue changes as women age which can make it more difficult to detect abnormalities. By having a baseline mammogram, your doctor can better detect any changes that may be indicative of breast cancer.
Fourthly, mammograms in your 30s can offer peace of mind. For many women, the thought of breast cancer and the fear of the unknown can be scary. By starting breast cancer screenings in your 30s, you are taking a proactive approach to your health. Furthermore, if your mammogram comes back clear, you can relax knowing that there are no signs of breast cancer at this time.
Lastly, mammograms in your 30s can be covered by insurance. Many insurance companies cover mammograms for women over the age of 40, however, some will also cover mammograms for women in their 30s if there are risk factors present. Therefore, it is important to discuss your risk factors with your doctor and check with your insurance company to see if mammograms before the age of 40 are covered.
In conclusion, mammograms in your 30s are important for a number of reasons. Early detection, the risk of breast cancer regardless of age, establishing a baseline for future screenings, peace of mind, and insurance coverage are all reasons to consider starting mammograms as early as your 30s. Talk to your doctor to determine if a mammogram is right for you and understand your risk factors for breast cancer. Don’t wait until it’s too late, be proactive and start taking control of your breast health early on.
