Annual mammograms: Why screening matters

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to prioritize your breast health and make time for screenings that can help detect breast cancer early. For many women, that means scheduling a mammogram.

Routine breast cancer screening can help find breast cancer before symptoms develop, when it may be smaller and easier to treat. Regular screening is one of the most important tools available for detecting breast cancer early, and early detection can make a difference in treatment options and outcomes.

At Ascension, we make it easier to take an important step for your health with convenient mammography locations and online scheduling options.

Talk with your doctor about when to begin screening and how often you should be screened. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other factors that may increase your risk, you may need to begin screening earlier or have additional screening. We offer dedicated high-risk breast cancer clinics and genetic counseling services to help you and your care team better understand your individual risk.

Breast cancer does not always cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That is why routine screening is so important, even when you feel healthy. A screening mammogram is designed to look for signs of breast cancer before you notice a change.

In addition to keeping up with recommended screenings, it is important to know what is normal for your breasts and talk with your health care provider if you notice a new lump, a change in breast size or shape, skin changes, nipple changes or other unusual symptoms. If you notice a concerning change, do not wait for your next routine mammogram to seek medical advice.

Your breast imaging needs may change based on your health history, screening results and individual risk. Ascension offers a range of breast imaging services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, digital 3D mammograms, breast ultrasound and breast MRI. By getting to know you and your health history, our care teams can help determine which type of breast imaging is appropriate for you.

A 3D mammogram may require an additional fee if your health insurance carrier does not cover the full cost. Check with your insurance carrier to determine whether you may be responsible for any additional costs.

It can be easy to put off a mammogram when life gets busy. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to check one more thing off your health care to-do list. You do not need to wait for symptoms or a special occasion to schedule your screening. If you are due for a mammogram, take a few minutes to make your appointment.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than wearing pink. It is an opportunity to take action for your health. If you are due for a mammogram, schedule it today. Early detection starts with screening, and Ascension is here to help make taking that important step easier.

A referral is not required for a screening mammogram.

Schedule your screening mammogram online in Northeast Florida or Northwest Florida.