Why Regular Mammograms Matter  

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and regular mammograms are a key part of screenings and early detection. 

“Mammography is one of the best screening tools we have for the early detection of breast cancer,” Thomas Alewine, MD, WVU Medicine radiologist, said. 

A mammogram is a specialized imaging test to examine breast tissue. During the test, a technologist places the breast on a flat X-ray platform, and a plastic plate will compress the breast briefly to flatten and take detailed images of the tissue. A radiologist will review those images to spot lumps, deposits, or masses. 

“Breast cancer can be much easier to treat when it’s found early,” Dr. Alewine said. “Regular mammograms can make a lifesaving difference.” 

Screening guidelines vary based on individual risk and family history. Your healthcare provider can help determine if you should start screening at age 40 and whether you should screen every year or every other year. 

“If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, you might need to start screenings earlier than 40 or have additional tests like breast ultrasounds or MRIs, but mammograms are a great place to start,” Dr. Alewine said. 

To learn more about mammograms in Berkeley and Jefferson counties, visit: Locations | WVU Medicine 

For details on WVU Medicine’s mobile mammography unit, Bonnie’s Bus, visit: Mobile Cancer Screening Program: Bonnie’s Bus | WVU Cancer Institute