Annual mammograms are one of the best things women can do for themselves to ensure they catch breast cancer early.

“Women need to have mammograms annually because a lot can change in a year’s time. And it’s so important to catch the malignancies while they are very small, and that will increase the survival chances,” says Kathy Davidson, lead technologist/mammographer at CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs Women’s Center.

Davidson said women should have their first mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40 which is called a baseline mammogram. Yearly mammograms will follow after that.

Women should also do self exams in between appointments. You should look for lumps, tenderness, puffy skin, discoloration of the skin, texture of the skin, or discharge the nipple. If you notice any of those things, you should contact your doctor. 

Learn more about breast services at CHI St. Vincent.