Why might I need a mammogram?

You might need a mammogram for a few reasons, such as your age and your family history.

A mammogram (an X-ray of the breast) is a screening tool to help find and diagnose breast cancer. This means it’s used before you have any symptoms. By getting regular mammograms (and doing self-exams at home), your healthcare provider can find and treat pre-cancer and cancer before it has a chance to spread and when it’s easier to treat.

Starting at age 40, you’ll have the option to begin annual breast cancer screening using mammograms. Depending on your family history, genetics, and other factors, your provider might recommend starting exams earlier.