Mammograms and the Importance of Catching Breast Cancer Early

Most people don’t think about breast cancer until it affects them or someone they know. However, early detection can make all the difference.

Mammograms are one of the most effective tools we have in the fight against breast cancer. They can detect cancer before symptoms appear, which can save lives.

At Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., in Salem, Oregon, Elizebeth Rose Harmon, MD, FACOG, and the team stress the importance of mammograms to protect your health.

Why early detection matters

Catching breast cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Breast cancer is often easier to treat and less likely to spread when detected in its earliest stages. It also opens the door to more treatment options and increases the likelihood of a full recovery.

Early-stage cancers are often too small to feel, making regular screenings critical.

Without routine mammograms, many breast cancers go unnoticed until symptoms appear. By that point, the disease may have advanced.

What’s a mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose breast X-ray to detect changes in breast tissue before a lump can be felt. It’s quick, typically taking about 20 minutes. Some women find it slightly uncomfortable, but the benefits far outweigh any brief discomfort.

Mammograms can spot tiny tumors and even identify calcifications — small calcium deposits that can indicate early cancer.

There are two main types of mammograms: Screening mammograms are routine checks, while diagnostic mammograms can help when a symptom or abnormal finding needs a closer look.

When should you start getting mammograms?

The guidelines vary slightly depending on the organization, but most recommend that women begin annual or biennial mammograms between ages 40 and 50.

If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, our team may suggest starting earlier. Your personal risk level should guide your screening schedule, and that’s a conversation worth having with Dr. Harmon.

No two patients are alike. The key is to start the conversation early and stay consistent with screenings over time.

Common concerns and misconceptions

One common fear about mammograms is radiation exposure. While it’s true that mammograms use X-rays, the dose is extremely low, far less than a standard chest X-ray.

Another concern is false positives. Mammograms can sometimes detect something that turns out to be benign, but they still offer the best chance of identifying cancer early. Follow-up imaging or a biopsy can usually clarify any uncertainty.

Avoiding screenings out of fear can lead to much bigger problems later on. Knowledge is power, and early information gives you options.

How mammograms save lives

Routine mammograms reduce breast cancer deaths, especially for women over 50. Screening finds cancer earlier, allowing for less-aggressive treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Mammograms don’t prevent cancer but help detect it before symptoms appear, and that makes all the difference. The earlier breast cancer is caught, the better the odds of beating it.

Make mammograms part of your routine care

Mammograms may not be something you look forward to, but they’re a powerful preventive health care tool. Making time for regular screenings can offer peace of mind or an early diagnosis that could save your life.

At our clinic, we encourage open conversations and personalized care plans. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process. For expert help, call Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., or book your appointment online today.