Mammograms are one of the primary tools that doctors use to detect breast cancer in patients. They play a key role in ensuring that cancers are caught early - before they spread and while they are still easily treatable.

Mammograms take x-rays of the breasts to screen for cancer, as well as for other abnormalities, like cysts, calcifications, and fibroadenomas. Screening mammography is one of the primary tools that doctors use to screen patients for breast cancer.

The American College of Radiology (ACR) and the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) recommend that all women should "have a risk assessment at age 30 to see if a screen earlier than age 40 is needed."

Health care providers use breast exams and mammograms to detect cancer in breast tissue before symptoms occur. There are a few ways in which you can get tested:

Mammogram: A screening mammogram is a low-dose x-ray that takes two or more x-rays of each breast to check for tumors and abnormalities.

Breast ultrasound: If abnormalities are found during your mammogram, your doctor may request a breast ultrasound, which uses sound waves to see the breast tissue in real-time. A breast ultrasound is a useful option for women with dense breasts.

Breast tomosynthesis (3-D mammography): Uses x-rays and computer technology to create a 3-D image of the breast. 3-D mammography is another useful option for women with dense breasts.

Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM): Combines 3-D mammography with a contrast dye to better detect breast cancer in those who are high-risk or who have dense breasts.

Breast MRI: Uses radio waves and magnets, along with a computer to create a detailed image of your breast. This is a great option for those who have previously had breast cancer and would like to avoid the radiation from a regular mammogram.

Self-exam: This is an at-home exam where you check your breasts for any unusual lumps or thickening of the skin. Learn how to perform a self-exam here.

Early detection is crucial in catching breast cancer and starting treatment before it spreads. Studies show that regular diagnostic mammograms have helped reduce the number of breast cancer deaths in women - particularly among women over the age of 50.

Mammograms are highly effective at screening not just for breast cancer, but also for rarer types of tumors like invasive ductal and lobular cancers. Mammograms catch cancers early. In some cases, if the cancer is still early-stage, you may not even need radiation or chemotherapy for treatment.

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It depends. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends women age 50 and older get a screening every 2 years. The American College of Radiology recommends that women ages 40 and above should get a breast exam once a year. The American Cancer Society, however, notes that "among average-risk women, clinical breast examinations to screen for breast cancer is not recommended."

Talk with your doctor about your breast exam options.

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3-D mammograms are another tool that doctors use to screen for breast cancer and abnormalities. 3D mammography combines multiple x-ray breast imaging slides to create a multi-dimensional picture of the breasts.

Digital mammography is a great option for women with dense breast tissue. It detects a wider range of cancers than traditional mammograms and reduces the likelihood that you'll need to schedule follow-up appointments for further diagnostic imaging.

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There are several different factors that could put you at a higher risk of breast cancer. According to the CDC, you may be more likely to develop breast cancer if the following apply to you:

Personal and family history: If anyone in your immediate family has had breast cancer, then you may be at higher risk and should consider regular mammography visits.

Dense breasts: There is more connective tissue in dense breasts, increasing the likelihood that you could develop breast cancer.

Gene mutations: Genetic mutations in genes such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 may put you at a higher risk of breast cancer.

Aging: Most cases of breast cancer involve women above the age of 50.

Previous radiation therapy: Women who have previously received radiation therapy in the chest before the age of 30 have a higher risk of developing breast cancer later down the line.

Breast cancer screenings are one of the best tools for early detection. Book a mammogram with Sesame. No insurance. No copay. No nonsense. Just simple, affordable care.