When to Consider Getting a Mammogram

As previously stated, mammograms are recommended to be performed yearly, once the female reaches the age of 40. Once the patient turns 55, the routinely check up is then changed to every two years. But what other factors should be considered to have a mammogram done for somebody younger than 40?

According to Simon LeVay and others, genes, reproductive history, alcohol, obesity, breast size and breast density, along with radiation, exercise, and hormones, are factors that should not be overlooked when debating to have a mammogram done. Women whose first-degree relatives have been diagnosed with breast cancer- such as mothers, sisters, or daughters- face the risk of breast cancer two times as much as somebody whose relatives have not been diagnosed, as they inherit gene mutations that put them at twice the risk of developing the disease. Women who are at a slight increased risk of developing breast cancer, are those who use oral contraceptives, and those who experience an early menarche or a late menopause, along with women who do not give birth or give birth after 30. Those who are at high risk of developing breast cancer are women who drink alcohol every day, those with body fat concentrated at the waist, women who are constantly exposed to radiation such as CT scans, along with women who have a bigger breast size and larger breast density. According to the Susan G. Komen Organization, an easy way one can lower their risk of developing breast cancer is by exercising- by about 20% (komen.org).