Mammograms are x-rays of the breast that can detect cancer. They save lives by detecting breast cancer in its early stage and from there, it is much easier to treat!
According to the National Cancer Institute, almost 298,000 women in the US will be diagnosed and 43,000 will tragically die from the disease each year.
Breast cancer is the most common type of (non-skin) cancer in women in the US and it is second only to lung cancer as a cause of death in American women.
Women age 50-74 (who are at average risk) for breast cancer are advised to get a mammogram every 2 years (according to the US Preventative Services Task Force).
Women age 40-49 should talk with their doctor (or other health care provider) about when to start and how often to get a mammogram.