Screening Mammogram for Breast Cancer

The earlier that you detect breast cancer, the higher the chance that treatment is successful.¹ Some signs of breast cancer may be invisible without the help of a radiology procedure known as a mammogram. Mammograms involve taking images of the breasts so that medical providers can examine breast tissue for irregularities. Read on to learn about screening mammograms in more detail, including what forms of breast cancer they can detect and when you should start getting routine exams.

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Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

A screening mammogram is a routine breast exam for asymptomatic patients to look for breast cancer signs that a physical exam may not detect.²
It’s recommended that people with average health care risks begin getting annual screening mammograms at age 45.³
Aflac offers supplemental cancer insurance for individuals (additional coverage for expenses not covered by your primary insurance plan) that can help cover the costs of routine screening mammograms and other preventative care.

What is a screening mammogram?

Screening mammograms are routine preventive procedures performed on asymptomatic patients to look for signs of breast cancer that may go undetected by physical examination alone. During a screening mammogram, radiologists perform X-ray imaging of your breasts from multiple angles. They then examine the images for any irregularities or other signs that warrant a closer look.²

Screening mammogram vs. diagnostic mammogram

Screening and diagnostic mammograms differ in a few key ways. A diagnostic mammogram is an imaging procedure used to examine breast tissue closely, usually after a screening mammogram detects unusual results.² These may also be ordered if the patient is experiencing symptoms such as pain, discharge, or lumps. Diagnostic mammograms are more in-depth than screening mammograms and require more targeted imaging to help radiologists examine the area more closely to make an accurate diagnosis.

Types of breast cancer mammograms can help detect

Mammograms can detect an array of breast cancer types. Here are some common forms it can catch:

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): This is the earliest form of breast cancer. It consists of abnormal cells in the breast duct’s lining that have not yet spread outside of it.⁴
Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common form of breast cancer, making up 70% to 80% of breast cancers.⁴ It occurs when the cancer has spread from the duct lining to surrounding tissue.
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): This cancer forms in the lobules, or the glands that produce breast milk. About 10% of breast cancer cases are ILC.⁴
Triple-negative breast cancer: This aggressive form of breast cancer lacks estrogen and progesterone receptors. It may also lack or make very few HER2 receptors.⁴

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When should I get a screening mammogram?

Women should have the option to start getting mammograms when they turn 40. However, it’s recommended that women start getting annual mammograms by age 45. At 55, women can either continue yearly screening or reduce the frequency to one mammogram every two years. Then, they should continue getting mammograms as long as they are in good health and have a remaining life expectancy of at least 10 years. Speak to your health provider if you’re not sure about how often you should get a mammogram.³

Where can I get a screening mammogram for breast cancer?

Mammograms are available at several types of medical facilities, including:⁴

Hospitals
Outpatient imaging centers
Breast centers
Imaging centers
Mobile mammography units

Facilities providing mammograms must adhere to Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) criteria.⁴ This offers peace of mind that all mammogram providers have met qualification standards.

Does insurance cover mammograms?

Many health insurance policies cover screening mammograms for women 40 and older.4 However, insurance policies may require a copay or coinsurance for diagnostic mammograms. Check with your insurance company and plan to see what’s covered and what the cost may be before booking your mammogram.

If your policy doesn’t cover all preventive screenings, a supplemental cancer insurance policy can help bridge the gap. Aflac offers cancer insurance for individuals that can help with expenses associated with cancer screenings so you can get the care you need worry-free.

How to prepare for a mammogram

Here are a few tips to make your mammogram go smoothly and to get the most accurate results:²

Schedule the mammogram at the right time: Try to schedule your mammogram when your breasts are less likely to experience sensitivity. The best time is often one to two weeks after your period starts.
Check with your doctor beforehand if you’re pregnant: It’s important to check with your doctor before getting a mammogram if you’re pregnant, since you may have to discuss other exam options.
Notify your technician if you’re breastfeeding: You should let your technician know if you’re currently breastfeeding before the exam.
Provide previous mammogram records: If you’re going to a new facility, get mammogram records from any facilities you attended in the past for mammograms. Providing the facility with more information and context helps them better understand your situation when analyzing the images.
Don’t wear deodorant: Avoid using any deodorant, perfume, or lotion before the exam, since these can interfere with the mammogram. Consider taking deodorant with you to apply afterwards.

Get a quote for cancer insurance

Mammograms can help detect breast cancer signs invisible to physical or visual examination, making successful treatment more likely. While screening mammograms are typically covered by health insurance, diagnostic mammograms may not be.

Fortunately, cancer insurance can offer additional coverage to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Aflac cancer insurance policies can help cover expenses your traditional health insurance doesn’t, and may offer a cash benefit that you can use for any expenses — not just medical bills. Speak with an Aflac agent today to learn more about the financial security cancer insurance can help provide.

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