According to the  American Cancer Society, "screening increases the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they are most likely to be treated successfully." Several reliable, cost-effective and relatively harmless screening tests are approved and available to help us detect breast, prostate, colon, lung and cervical cancers. Start the conversation with your healthcare provider today to determine what screening tests are right for you.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Mammography is the main tool used to screen for breast cancer, using x-ray technology to view the breasts and detect any abnormalities. Experts agree that women should talk to their health care provider to determine when it is right for them to begin screening for breast cancer, how often to screen and when to stop getting mammograms.

Mammogram Recommendations for Women at Average Risk

• 40 - 44 years: Option to begin annual mammography, obtain baseline to determine breast density.
• 45 - 54 years: Annual mammography.
• 55+ years: Discuss option of annual or every-other-year mammography.

Review your health history with your provider to determine your level of risk.

Request an appointment online or by calling 360-424-6161 (Mount Vernon) or 360-814-8208 (Arlington).

Click here to request a mammography appointment at Skagit Regional Health today.