October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a good reminder of something simple but powerful: a mammogram can save your life.
Why Mammograms Matter
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but it’s also one of the most treatable when it’s caught early. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that can detect changes years before you could ever feel a lump or notice a symptom. Finding cancer at its earliest stages often means more treatment options, less invasive care, and better outcomes.
Many women feel perfectly healthy when their cancer is found on a screening mammogram. That’s exactly the point. Screening is meant to catch what you can’t see or feel.
Who Should Get Screened?
Guidelines vary slightly among medical organizations, but in general:
- Women at average risk should talk with their provider about starting annual screening mammograms at 40.
- Women with a family history of breast cancer, a known genetic mutation, or other risk factors may need to start earlier or have additional screening.
- Women of any age. There is no age at which you should stop getting mammograms. As long as you are in good health, screening remains an important part of taking care of yourself. Just talk to your health care provider.
- Anyone who notices a change, such as a lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, or breast pain that doesn’t go away, should call their provider right away rather than waiting for their next scheduled screening.
Not sure where you fit? Your provider can help you decide when to start and how often to be screened.
“I’m Too Busy” and Other Reasons Women Put It Off
We hear it often: I don’t have time. I’m nervous about the results. I feel fine. I can’t afford it. These worries are completely understandable, but they shouldn’t stand in the way of your health.
Cost is one of the biggest reasons women skip or delay a mammogram. Some women don’t have health insurance. Others have insurance that doesn’t cover the entire cost. Henry Community Health has an assistance program to help with the cost of a mammogram. Please don’t let cost stand in your way.
At Henry Community Health, we’ve worked to remove as many barriers as possible:
- Financial assistance. If you’re uninsured or your insurance doesn’t pay the full cost, our assistance program can help make your mammogram affordable.
- Same-day or same-week appointments. You don’t have to wait weeks to get on the schedule. Call, and we’ll work to get you in quickly.
- Breast health navigators. Our navigators are here to guide you every step of the way, from scheduling your screening to answering questions to helping you understand your results and next steps.
- Comprehensive care close to home. HCH can take care of most all breast health needs, so if something unexpected comes up, you can stay with a team you know and trust.
What to Expect at Your Mammogram
A screening mammogram is quick, usually about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish, with the imaging itself taking only a few minutes. A technologist will position you and gently compress each breast for a clear image. Some women feel pressure or mild discomfort, but it’s brief.
A few tips to make it easier:
- Schedule your appointment for a time when your breasts are less likely to be tender, which for many women is the week after their period.
- Skip deodorant, powders, or lotions on the day of your exam, as they can show up on images.
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up.
- Tell the technologist if it’s uncomfortable. Sometimes a small adjustment in compression or positioning is all it takes to make your experience more comfortable.
If Your Results Need a Closer Look
Being called back after a screening mammogram is common, and it does not mean you have cancer. Often, additional imaging simply provides a clearer picture. If further testing or care is needed, your breast health navigator will be there to help coordinate your next steps and support you along the way. You won’t have to figure it out alone.
Make the Call Today
If you’re due for a mammogram, or you’re not sure whether you are, don’t put it off another day. A few minutes now can make all the difference down the road.
Call Henry Community Health at 765-521-1415 to schedule your mammogram today. With same-day and same-week appointments available, there’s never been an easier time to take care of yourself.
Do it for you. Do it for the people who love you. Your health is worth the time.