Get Your Mammogram
The Gold Standard for Detecting Breast Cancer
Mammography, X-ray of the breast, is used to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, when it is small and most treatable. In fact, mammograms can detect 90 to 95 percent of breast cancers. Mammography is considered the best method for detecting breast cancer and the only screening method to lower mortality rates. It is recommended in combination with monthly breast self-exams and annual clinical breast exams. Early detection can lead to a greater range of treatment options, less extensive surgery, and better treatment outcomes.
Who Should get a Screening Mammogram
- One in six breast cancers occurs in women in their 40s.
- Mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40 percent since 1990.
- Annual screening mammography starting at age 40 reduces breast cancer mortality by 30 percent.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women:
- Age 20 or older perform monthly breast self-exams.
- Ages 20 to 40 receive a clinical breast exam by a health care provider every three years.
- Age 40 or older receive a clinical breast exam by a health care provider every year.
- Age 40 or older get a mammogram annually and continuing as long as the woman is in good health.
It's a Good Idea to Get a Mammogram
Our Breast Health Experts answer common concerns.
I am worried mammograms are painful
Mammograms may be uncomfortable, but they should not be painful. The reasons for compression are: it spreads out the tissue more evenly to better see your breast tissue, it lowers the radiation dose, and decreases motion or blurring in the images.
I am concerned about the cost of a mammogram
Many insurance companies cover screening mammograms. To learn more about the programs offered at MyMichigan Health and how to apply, please call the MyMichigan Breast Health Coordinator at (989) 837-9054 or by e-mail at breast.health@mymichigan.org.
I am worried about what the doctors will find
Mammography is the ONLY method of screening for breast cancer that is proven to decrease mortality from breast cancer. The goal is to find cancer EARLY when it is still small and is the most treatable. The most lives are saved from breast cancer when women get screened every year, starting at age 40.
I don't have a family history
75% of women who develop breast cancer are of “average risk” with no family history of breast cancer or other high risk factors.
I am worried about the radiation
Radiation exposure of mammography is very low. The American Cancer Society estimates that a single screening mammogram is equivalent to the radiation you are exposed to on a flight from New York to California on a commercial jet.
I don't have time
It usually takes about 30 minutes or less to have a mammogram at MyMichigan Health. We have a flexible schedule to find a time that best fits your needs. You can also conveniently schedule your screening mammogram through the MyChart portal at my.midmichigan.net.
If I have dense breasts, do I still need a mammogram?
Yes. A mammogram is the only medical imaging screening test proven to reduce breast cancer deaths. Many cancers are seen on mammograms even if you have dense breast tissue.
What is 3D Mammography?
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), also called 3D mammography, provides images of the breast in “slices” from many different angles making some abnormalities easier to see.
If I had a normal mammogram last year, do I need one this year?
Having a normal mammogram one year does not guarantee that a cancer will not develop or become apparent on a mammogram the following year. Skipping a mammogram every other year has been shown to “miss” up to 30 percent of cancers, even in women 50 and older.
What to Expect at Your Mammogram
Having a mammogram is an important step in taking care of your health. Simply put, mammograms save lives and is the best way to find breast cancer early. MyMichigan Health has created this video to help reduce anxiety women may encounter during their first mammogram. We walk patients through the process of scheduling an appointment through what to expect during the exam. MyMichigan Health recommends all women beginning at the age of 40 receive an annual mammogram. Women at high risk or have a family history of breast cancer should discuss a plan with their primary care provider.
Types of Screenings Available at MyMichigan Health
How to Schedule Your Mammogram
To schedule your mammogram at one of MyMichigan Health's conveniently located breast-care centers:
- Get a mammogram order from your physician.
- Call MyMichigan Health scheduling at (989) 633-5252 or Toll Free (888) 367-2778. In Sault Ste. Marie, call (906) 635-4439.
- Or self-schedule through MyChart Patient Portal, visit my.midmichigan.net.
- Seek financial-support information if you are concerned about how to afford a mammogram.
