Mammogram: at what age should I have it done?

Before breast lumps emerge or other symptoms of breast cancer appear, it is possible to detect the presence of this disease. Mammogram can be used to look for breast cancer, an exam that every woman over the age of 40 should undergo on an annual basis. This procedure, which takes less than 20 minutes, is a detailed x-ray image of the breast. With this "photograph," specialists can identify abnormalities such as calcifications or masses and define whether complementary diagnostic tests are required.

Mammography is performed with a specialized machine that emits low doses of radiation and is equipped with two plastic plates that compress the breast for a few seconds to achieve a better image. This process can cause discomfort, so try to have your mammogram a week after your period when your breasts may feel less tender.

Recommendations before a mammogram

• Avoid using deodorants, creams or perfumes in the armpits and on the breasts a couple of hours before the procedure. These particles could generate false alarms.
• You will need to undress from the waist up for the exam. Wearing a dress may be uncomfortable for some patients.
• Request your X-rays and keep a history. This file allows traceability, regardless of the center where you have the exam.

After the mammogram, you may be contacted for further testing. Don't be alarmed by this communication. In these cases, less than one in 10 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

Within these complementary exams, ultrasounds or new mammograms may be performed in which more images are taken in a particular area. In some cases, a breast biopsy may be needed.

Don't be scared. Different studies and research have documented that women who have regular mammograms have a greater chance of detecting breast cancer early and therefore may benefit from less invasive treatment such as breast-conservative surgery.