Having a mammogram performed annually is the best way doctors can detect early signs of breast disease. Unfortunately, not enough women are having this vital exam done; according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 65.3% of women over the age of 40 have had a mammogram performed within the past two years. At Hudson Valley Imaging in Monroe, NY, our diagnostic imaging experts are thoroughly familiar with mammography and know how crucial it can be to an early diagnosis.

The imaging experts at Hudson Valley Imaging have shared five reasons why women are skipping this important breast cancer screening tool:

• Cost: Many women don’t have an adequate amount of health insurance, making it difficult to afford an annual exam. Fortunately, low-cost or free mammograms are available through national or community-based programs.
• Radiation Concerns: A common misconception about mammograms is that the level of radiation from these exams can cause cancer. Providers now utilize diagnostic imaging that uses a low, safe dose of radiation. This technology also provides radiologists with sharp, clear images of the breast.
• Scheduling Issues: With packed schedules that juggle work, life, and family obligations, it can seem impossible to make time for preventative healthcare. Fortunately, the entire screening procedure takes just 20 minutes. Hudson Valley Imaging offers flexible scheduling to make it easy for patients to make an appointment that suits their lives.
• Mammograms Are Painful: This is a common misconception- the actual level of discomfort felt during a mammogram is minimal. The radiologists at Hudson Valley Imaging recommend that patients schedule their procedure 10-14 days before their menstrual cycles begin, as the breasts aren’t as tender during this time.
• Fear of Detection: A major reason that women don’t have annual screenings done is a fear that the radiologist will have bad news. This is a normal anxiety to have, says Hudson Valley Imaging. Not every abnormality found during a screening ends up being breast cancer – in fact, many lumps that are dedicated end up not being cancerous. However, if you are diagnosed with breast cancer, having it detected early greatly increases your chances of catching it before it spreads.