What Every Woman Needs to Know About Breast Cancer

 

Early Detection is Your Best Protection

One of the keys to the increasing breast cancer survival rate is early detection. Of women whose breast cancer is detected in its earliest stages, 96% have at least a five-year survival rate. It is so important for every woman to follow these screening guidelines:

  • Fletcher Allen recommends annual screening mammography for all women beginning at age 40 and continuing as long as a woman remains in good health. Risks and benefits should be discussed by a woman with her physician or health care provider.
  • Women who are at increased risk based on family history or prior history of radiation treatment for certain cancers should have MRI in addition to mammography annually. Every woman should be aware of her breast cancer risk. Screening methods vary by risk. Consult your physician for your individual assessment of risk.