Breast Cancer Awareness: Why Mammograms Matter

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage education, and remind women to prioritize their health. One of the most important steps women can take is staying up to date with recommended mammograms.

In the United States, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. While breast cancer can affect women of all ages, finding it early can make a significant difference. Mammograms are one of the most effective tools available for detecting breast cancer early, often before a woman notices any symptoms or can feel a lump.

When Should You Start Getting Mammograms?

Screening recommendations can vary based on your age, health history, and risk factors. Generally:

Ages 35–40: Some women may be eligible for one baseline screening mammogram. This gives doctors an image to compare with future screenings and can help identify changes over time.

Age 40 and beyond: Most women should begin regular annual mammograms. Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, routine screening can detect changes that may not yet be noticeable.

Women with certain risk factors may need to begin screening earlier or have mammograms more frequently. Talk with your primary care provider if you have:

• A close relative who has been diagnosed with breast cancer

• A genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2

• A history of chest radiation treatment

Your provider can help determine the screening schedule that is right for you.

Early Detection Matters

A mammogram is a quick and important step in taking care of your health. It can detect breast cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage — sometimes before any symptoms appear.

Anna Marie Stewart, Radiology Director at Bibb Medical Center, emphasizes the importance of awareness and early detection.

“Awareness saves lives. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and education. It creates space for conversations, encourages women to prioritize their health, and spreads hope through stories of survival.”

She also highlights the important role mammography plays in detecting changes early:

“Radiology plays a crucial role in detecting breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. Mammography allows us to detect changes before any symptoms occur, giving patients the best chance of successful treatment and recovery.”

Make Your Health a Priority

Women often spend so much time caring for the people around them that their own health can move to the bottom of the list. Anna Marie encourages women to make their health a priority.

“As mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends, we so often put others before ourselves, but now is the time to prioritize our health so we can continue to be there for the people we love.”

Schedule Your Mammogram

Bibb Medical Center’s Radiology Department is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), recognizing excellence in image quality, safety, and patient care.

If you are due for a mammogram, talk with your primary care provider about scheduling your screening. A referral from your primary care provider is required for a mammogram at Bibb Medical Center.

Taking time for a mammogram is more than a routine appointment — it is an important step in taking care of yourself and protecting your health.

Early detection saves lives. Schedule your mammogram and make your health a priority this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.