Screening Mammogram for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer screening can help detect breast cancer early when it may be easier to treat.¹ Some signs of breast cancer may only be visible with the help of a mammogram. Mammograms take images of the breasts so medical providers can examine the tissue for irregularities.² Read on to learn how screening mammograms work, what forms of breast cancer they can detect and when you should start getting routine exams.

4 min. read

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
Breast cancer screening guidelines vary, but many organizations recommend that people at average risk start routine mammograms between the ages of 40 and 45.³
Aflac's supplemental cancer insurance can help cover the costs of routine screening mammograms and other preventive 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 during physical examinations. During a screening mammogram, radiologists perform X-ray imaging of the breasts from multiple angles. After that, they examine the images for any irregularities or other signs that warrant a closer look.²

Screening vs. diagnostic mammogram

Breast mammogram screening and diagnostic mammograms differ in a few key ways. A diagnostic mammogram is an imaging procedure used to examine breast tissue, usually after a screening mammogram reveals abnormal findings. Health providers may order them for patients experiencing pain, discharge or lumps. Diagnostic mammograms are more in-depth than screening mammograms and require more targeted imaging to help radiologists make an accurate diagnosis.²

Types of breast cancer mammograms can help detect

Mammograms can detect a wide range of breast cancers. Here are some common types they can catch:⁴

Ductal carcinoma in situ: This is the earliest form of breast cancer. It consists of abnormal cells in the breast duct lining that have not yet spread outside of it.
Invasive ductal carcinoma: This is the most common form of breast cancer, making up around 80% of all breast cancers. It occurs when the cancer has spread from the duct lining to the surrounding tissue.
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): This cancer forms in the lobules, which are the glands that produce breast milk. Around 10% of breast cancer cases are ILC.
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.

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When should I get a screening mammogram?

Screening mammogram guidelines vary by organization. For example, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women ages 40 to 74 at average risk get a mammogram every two years.

Meanwhile, the American Cancer Society suggests that women:³

Ages 40 to 44 should have the option to start annual screening
Ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year
Ages 55 and older can switch to every two years or continue yearly screening

Patients at higher risk of developing breast cancer may start screening earlier or get screened more often. If you're wondering, "When should you get a mammogram?," your health care provider can help you choose a schedule based on your age and risk level.

Where can I get a screening mammogram for breast cancer?

Mammograms are available at several types of medical facilities, including:⁵

Hospitals
Outpatient imaging centers
Breast centers
Imaging centers
Mobile mammography units

Facilities that provide mammograms must adhere to the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) criteria. This offers peace of mind that all mammogram providers meet qualification standards.⁵

Does insurance cover mammograms?

Many health insurance policies cover screening mammograms for women 40 and older.⁶ 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 you're concerned about mammogram cost without insurance, ask your provider or imaging center about pricing before your appointment ask your provider or imaging center about pricing before your appointment.

If your policy doesn't cover all preventive screenings, a supplemental cancer insurance policy can help bridge the gap. For example, Aflac's cancer insurance 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:

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.⁷
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.⁷
Provide previous breast cancer mammography screening records: If you're going to a new facility, gather your mammogram records and share them with the new facility to give them a full picture of your breast health when analyzing the images.⁷
Don't wear deodorant: Avoid using any deodorant, perfume or lotion before the exam, since these can interfere with the mammogram. You can take deodorant with you to apply afterward.⁷

Get a quote for Aflac cancer insurance

Mammograms can help detect potential signs of breast cancer, making successful treatment more likely. Cancer insurance may help reduce your out-of-pocket costs for these screenings.

Aflac's cancer insurance policies offer cash benefits that you can use for cancer-related expenses. We also offer critical illness insurance, which may help you pay for costs related to covered serious illnesses.

Speak with an Aflac agent today to learn about your coverage options and get a quote.

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