Women encouraged to have mammograms A mammogram, an X-ray of the breast, is easy and safe and can detect 90 percent of cancer lumps, even those too small to be felt. Mammograms, along with regular breast self-exams and periodic visits to their regular doctor are important to women in maintaining health. Women between 20 and 50 should have a professional breast exam every three years. Women over 50 should have one every year. Luke's Medial Center.
Early detection leads to prolonged life.
Many breast cancers are curable through a variety of treatments. Chances for beating breast cancer are greatest if the disease is spotted early.