Mammograms are one of the best tools available for catching breast cancer early—when it’s most treatable. According to the Centers for Disease Control, screening mammograms can reduce breast cancer deaths by approximately 20 to 35 percent in women 50 to 69 years of age.

Help Reverse the Decline
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recommends that women ages 40 and older have mammograms every one to two years. And for many years, women were heeding this advice. According to the American Cancer Society, the percentage of U.S. women ages 40 and older who were getting regular mammograms grew steadily between 1987 and 2000.

Unfortunately, studies show that the number of women who get mammograms is on the decline. And researchers with the NCI have found that this is a national trend. One thing is clear: To win the battle against breast cancer, this trend needs to change.

The fact is, mammography does work. So follow your doctor’s advice about getting regular screenings.

More Ways to Detect Cancer
In addition to mammography, you should have a clinical breast exam performed by your doctor every year. You also may choose to do a breast self exam (BSE). Your doctor can show you how to perform one. Doing a BSE regularly can help you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any changes, talk with your doctor right away.

Test Your Mammogram IQ
There’s a lot to know about mammograms. Test your knowledge with a quiz. Go to www.paramounthealthcare.com and click on “Better Health for Life,” “Interactive Tools,” “Quizzes,” and then “Mammogram Quiz.”