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Breast Cancer: When Should Women Start Getting Annual Mammograms?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast start to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. It is the most common type of cancer in women, accounting for 20.3 lakh new cases and 6.7 lakh deaths in 2022 alone, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
It is important to note that the risk of female breast cancer increases with age, with most cases being diagnosed in women who are 50 years old or older. In fact, about 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer each year are 45 or older, and about 43% are 65 or older.
To mitigate the risk, doctors recommend conducting regular breast self-examinations and getting various tests to detect the condition early. However, many women remain doubtful as to when, why, and how often they should get their tests, including mammograms. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sushruta Mysore Shankar, Consultant - Breast Surgery and Surgical Oncology, SPARSH Hospital, Bengaluru, helps answer all the questions.
Also Read: Rare, But Men Can Also Develop Breast Cancer: Expert Shares Who Is At Risk And Warning Signs
Importance Of Early Breast Cancer DiagnosisBreast cancer can cause various symptoms, including a new lump in the breast or underarm, breast swelling, dimpling of the breast skin, inverted nipples, and more.
However, not all women show signs of breast cancer, and some remain asymptomatic for a long period of time. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can cause further complications. In certain cases, the cancer may spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastatic or advanced breast cancer. According to Cancer.Net, advanced breast cancer causes the vast majority of deaths from the disease. This is why early diagnosis plays a significant role.
It is only through regular screenings that doctors are able to catch the tumour on time and provide effective care and treatment.
Dr Shankar says, "Early diagnosis of breast cancer is crucial as it allows for timely intervention, leading to better treatment outcomes and increased chances of survival. Detecting breast cancer in its early stages enables more treatment options, allowing breast conservation and reducing the risk of cancer spreading to other parts of the body."
How Do Mammograms Work?A mammogram is a special X-ray that checks for abnormalities in the breast tissue. During the procedure, a doctor will position your breast on a platform and compress it between two plates. These plates will flatten the breast, spreading the tissue for a clearer image. A machine then emits a low dose of X-rays that pass through your breast and are captured by a detector on the other side. You are likely to feel some pressure during the procedure.
These X-rays are converted into digital images that allow radiologists to examine your breast tissue for signs of cancer or other changes.
Also Read: Accepting The Diagnosis Was Most Challenging: Digital Creator Esha Dhingra On Her Breast Cancer Journey
When Should Women Start Getting Annual Mammograms?When it comes to detecting breast cancer, women are advised to get regular breast screenings and conduct frequent breast self-examinations.
"For women at average risk, guidelines generally recommend starting mammograms at age 40 and continuing annually thereafter," recommends Dr Shankar.
However, individual risk factors and medical history may influence the timing and frequency of screenings, she adds.
Other Tests That Can Help Detect Breast CancerIn addition to mammograms, other methods to detect breast cancer include clinical breast exams performed by healthcare providers and breast self-exams conducted by individuals at home.
Imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may also be used in certain cases, particularly for women with dense breast tissue or higher risk factors, says Dr Shankar, adding that regular screenings and awareness of any changes in breast tissue are essential for early detection and effective management of breast cancer.
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I Was Diagnosed With Triple Negative Breast Cancer At 36 — The Signs To Look Out For
As a physician assistant with over a decade of experience on the frontlines of healthcare, I considered myself knowledgeable about breast cancer. I knew that breast cancer is typically diagnosed in middle-aged and older women. I knew that between ages 40 and 45, it's recommended that women start getting annual mammograms. I was more informed than the average person, yet the Stage 3C triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) diagnosis I received at 36 years old hit me like a punch in the face.
I've learned a lot since then, about the signs to look out for, the importance of self-advocacy, and the need for tailored resources and support for people living with advanced and metastatic breast cancer (MBC).
There's a significant gap between what most women know about breast cancer and what they need to know to be their own best advocate.
TNBC is different from other types of breast cancer. It's more commonly diagnosed in women younger than 40 compared to other subtypes and twice as common in Black women compared to white women. It's considered an "aggressive" cancer because it tends to grow and spread faster than other subtypes.
Through my physician assistant education, I was taught that mammograms aren't needed until age 40. But with an aggressive form of cancer like TNBC, where Black women are dying at a much higher rate than any other group of women, we need to be screened earlier. Had I waited to have a mammogram, I might not have made it to my 40th birthday. I am proof that early detection can save lives.
Don't be afraid to push for the care you deserve. Seek second opinions, ask questions, and educate yourself about your condition.
When I was diagnosed, I had just stopped breastfeeding my youngest daughter when I felt a lump in my left breast. At the time, I didn't think much of it because I knew that weaning can cause lumpy breasts and most lumps are not cancerous. A few weeks later I still felt the lump, so I scheduled a virtual appointment. My doctor ordered a mammogram, and breast ultrasound and ultimately, conducted a biopsy.
The need for self-advocacy — especially among Black women — first became apparent when I had to insist on receiving the diagnostic tests that my doctor had ordered because they looked at my age and said, "You don't need a mammogram. You're too young for this. You just need an ultrasound." But, I knew what my doctor had ordered and was able to push to get the diagnostics I needed.
Then, during the mid-portion of my adjuvant chemotherapy, I found out about a new immunotherapy for TNBC. When I asked my oncologist why I wasn't receiving it, I didn't get a good answer. He never welcomed a discussion about the treatment or my interest in participating in a clinical trial.
After that, I made a complaint, spoke to his chief, and got another oncologist. Eventually, I was able to gain access to the treatment through participation in a clinical trial, and, along with my post-adjuvant chemo, I responded well. Because of my persistence, I'm able to sit here today and encourage other women to advocate for their own treatment needs as if their lives depend on it — because in many cases, it does. Your health is worth fighting for.
Because TNBC can be more aggressive, early detection is vital. Familiarizing yourself with the signs of breast cancer can empower you to take charge of your health.
The key is to be aware of potential signs like a new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size or shape, or nipple discharge. TNBC is also more common in women with a BRCA1 gene mutation, which you can be tested for, especially if you have a strong family history of breast cancer.
I've learned that it's also important to know yourself. While incredibly important to help with early detection, mammograms do not find every breast cancer. Or if you're like me — you might be younger than the typical screening age. This means it's also important for you to know what your breasts normally look and feel like, so you'll be able to detect any changes.
Support groups and resources tailored to the specific needs of women living with advanced or metastatic breast cancer can make a big difference.
After taking the time I needed to process and accept my diagnosis, I started posting videos about my experience in hopes of connecting with other women, especially those who look like me, are my age, or are moms, too. That experience inspired me to start my non-profit organization, The Tatas 365, which is focused on screening high-risk Black women for breast cancer at earlier ages.
Storytelling can be a powerful educational tool. Advanced or metastatic breast cancer — no matter the subtype — is different from an early-stage diagnosis and can feel especially isolating and scary. Learning from others who have similar experiences and day-to-day challenges living with this disease makes us stronger in the face of it.
Related Stories From YourTango:One resource I'm proud to support and encourage others to visit is Expose-MBC, which provides a space to get real about metastatic breast cancer and TNBC with honest stories, information, and resources. The reality of life with advanced or metastatic breast cancer is different for each person. It's important to stay informed and connected. Working together, we can raise awareness and improve outcomes for patients everywhere.
Spreading awareness about breast cancer makes better and earlier detection possible. It's also possible to treat and live with advanced breast cancer.
The day I received my diagnosis was the saddest day of my life. I was afraid — for myself and my three young daughters, and the terrifying idea that I might not be there for them. It took some time, but I eventually decided that I couldn't stay frozen in fear and sadness. I knew I had to live for my daughters, and that I had a purpose. Not only do I find strength in my faith and family, but I also find it in the potential of the breast cancer community and in bringing attention to the disproportionate effect of TNBC on Black women. I will have breast cancer for the rest of my life, but I still have my life, and I'm living it as best I can.
LaToya Bolds-Johnson is a resilient breast cancer thriver, daughter, wife, mother, passionate advocate, and healthcare provider. With more than a decade of clinical expertise, LaToya's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Stage 3C triple-negative breast cancer. Her personal experience fuels her commitment to addressing health disparities, advocating for awareness, and empowering women to prioritize their well-being.
Must-know Guide On How To Check Your Breasts For Tell-tale Signs Of Cancer After The Death Of CoppaFeel Founder Kris Hallenga
Kris Hallenga, founder of charity CoppaFeel!, has died aged 38 following a 15-year breast cancer battle.
Kris, from Cornwall, was first diagnosed in 2009 with secondary breast cancer and given a life expectancy of just two years.
While facing her own illness head-on, Kris — nicknamed the 'boob chief' — taught a generation of women how to make sure breast cancer is diagnosed early, when it is best treated.
Before her death, Kris said she 'was never told to check myself'.
CoppaFeel!, which Kris and her twin sister Maren set up, encourages all women to check their breasts for signs of cancer because the disease 'doesn't discriminate and can affect anybody'. Setting out its objectives on its website, the charity says simply: 'Checking your chest could save your life.'
Kris spent the next 15 years teaching a generation how to make sure breast cancer is diagnosed early and accurately
Checking your breasts should be part of your monthly routine so you notice any unusual changes. Simply, rub and feel from top to bottom, feel in semi-circles and in a circular motion around your breast tissue to feel for any abnormalities
How should you check?Checking your breasts for lumps could save your life.
That's because checking your breasts could help find signs of breast cancer early. This means you have a better chance of beating the disease, experts say.
It should be part of your monthly routine so you notice any unusual changes, charity CoppaFeel! Says.
Around 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK, says Breast Cancer Now.
Meanwhile, roughly 300,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed in women every year in the US.
You can check in the shower, when you are lying down in bed or in the mirror before you get dressed.
Because breast tissue isn't just found in your boobs, it's also important that men and women check the tissue all the way up to their collarbone and underneath their armpit.
There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts, as long as you know how your breasts usually look and feel, says the NHS.
But one of the most popular methods online involves using the pads of your fingers.
Simply, rub and feel from top to bottom, feel in semi-circles and in a circular motion around your breast tissue to feel for any abnormalities, according to a guide shared in a blog post by the University of Nottingham.
If you spot any changes you should get it checked out by your GP.
Women aged between 50 and 70 should also be attending routine breast cancer screening.
Symptoms of breast cancer to look out for include lumps and swellings, dimpling of the skin, changes in colour, discharge and a rash or crusting around the nipple
Check for...A lump or swelling
Using your fingers feel for lumps or swellings in the breast, upper armpit and chest.
A lump or an area of thickened breast tissue that doesn't move easily is one of the first noticeable symptoms of breast cancer, says the NHS.
And according to the American Cancer Society, it's the most common symptom. It says the lumps are often hard and painless.
But when feeling for unusual lumps and bumps it is important to know what is normal for you, experts say.
The NHS advises women get used to how their breasts feel at different times of the month. This is because some women have tender and lumpy breasts, near the armpit, around the time of their period.
The feel of your breasts can also change after the menopause as normal breasts can feel softer less firm and not as lumpy.
As well as checking for lumps, visible changes to the shape and size of the breast is also important.
CoppaFeel! Founder Kris Hallenga (pictured), who had stage four breast cancer, has died aged 38
Changes to the skin
Another common sign of breast cancer is a change to the skin.
This can usually just be seen in the mirror and includes puckering or dimpling of the skin.
The dimpling skin is often compared to orange peel and can be associated with inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare but aggressive form of cancer.
A change in colour is also a warning sign to get checked out, says Breast Cancer Now.
If you notice your breast looks red or inflamed, it could be a sign of cancer.
Pain is only a symptom of breast cancer in rare cases, the NHS says. But if you feel pain or discomfort in one breast that doesn't go away you should see your GP.
Kris is the best-selling author of Glittering A Turd, seen here with an advert for her book which details how she discovered her life after being told she would die
A nipple change
It's important to not just check your breast tissue for abnormalities, but also your nipples, experts say.
Look for rashes or crusting around the nipple.
The NHS says this could look like eczema, crusting of the skin, scaly, itchy or red skin.
You should also check the position of your nipple, the NHS advises.
If it is being pulled in or starting to point in a different way to usual, it could be a sign of breast cancer.
Another warning sign to get checked out by your GP is discharge from either nipple.
Discharge is more common in ductal carcinoma in situ, which is an early form of breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts.
Cancer Research UK says the discharge can also be blood stained.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and affects more than two MILLION women a yearBreast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Each year in the UK there are more than 55,000 new cases, and the disease claims the lives of 11,500 women. In the US, it strikes 266,000 each year and kills 40,000. But what causes it and how can it be treated?
What is breast cancer?
It comes from a cancerous cell which develops in the lining of a duct or lobule in one of the breasts.
When the breast cancer has spread into surrounding tissue it is called 'invasive'. Some people are diagnosed with 'carcinoma in situ', where no cancer cells have grown beyond the duct or lobule.
Most cases develop in those over the age of 50 but younger women are sometimes affected. Breast cancer can develop in men, though this is rare.
Staging indicates how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body.
The cancerous cells are graded from low, which means a slow growth, to high, which is fast-growing. High-grade cancers are more likely to come back after they have first been treated.
What causes breast cancer?
A cancerous tumour starts from one abnormal cell. The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply 'out of control'.
Although breast cancer can develop for no apparent reason, there are some risk factors that can increase the chance, such as genetics.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
The usual first symptom is a painless lump in the breast, although most are not cancerous and are fluid filled cysts, which are benign.
The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph nodes in the armpit. If this occurs you will develop a swelling or lump in an armpit.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
If you are confirmed to have breast cancer, further tests may be needed to assess if it has spread. For example, blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the liver or a chest X-ray.
How is breast cancer treated?
Treatment options which may be considered include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. Often a combination of two or more of these treatments are used.
How successful is treatment?
The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is still small, and has not spread. Surgical removal of a tumour in an early stage may then give a good chance of cure.
The routine mammography offered to women between the ages of 50 and 70 means more breast cancers are being diagnosed and treated at an early stage.
For more information visit breastcancernow.Org or call its free helpline on 0808 800 6000
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