After 50, mammography should be done annually. A mammography is an x-ray of the breast. It can reveal tumors too small to be felt and can show other changes in the breast that doctors believe may suggest cancer. Usually, two x-rays are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side. Although some women are concerned about radiation exposure, the risk is very small.
Doctors recommend routine mammography because it is effective in finding breast cancer early.
Long-term studies have shown that using mammography along with a breast exam by a health professional can reduce deaths from breast cancer among women age 40 or older. These guidelines may change as new scientific information becomes available. The final decision regarding mammograms, of course, should be made on an individual basis. If you have a symptom of breast cancer, you should not hesitate to have a mammogram if your doctor recommends it. Women should have breast examinations during their routine checkups.