Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan)

For women of average risk level for breast cancer, preventive measures and screenings fall into two basic divisions, based on age.

• Women ages 20–39:Monthly breast self-exams are recommended.Any lumps or other changes should be reported immediately to your primary care physician. For details, see the Breast Self-Exam page on the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s Web site.
• Women ages 40+: An annual mammogram is recommended, as well as continued monthly breast self-exams.

For women with various factors that increase breast cancer risk, or who have dense breast tissue, the primary care physician may recommend additional measures, such as:

• Starting annual mammograms before age 40
• Using other screening methods in addition to the annual mammogram, such as breast MRI

The most important takeaway is that it is crucial, at any age, to keep your primary care physician fully informed about any issues in your personal or family medical history that may affect your breast cancer risk. This will help your physician develop a prevention and screening plan that meets your individual needs.

For details, visit the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer: Early Detection page.