Are You Due for a Mammogram?

Approximately 38% of women in Montana will be diagnosed with cancer, with breast cancer being the most common cancer among women.

Every woman is at risk for breast cancer even if she has no family history or other risk factors for the disease. Breast cancer typically produces no symptoms when the tumor is small and most easily treated, which is why screening is important for early detection. Receiving routine mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when treatment is more effective. Women who are 50-74 years old are at the highest risk for breast cancer and should get a mammogram every two years. Women who are 40-49 years old should talk to with a health care provider about when to start and how often to get a mammogram.

The Montana Cancer Control Program provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings for those who meet the eligibility requirements. For more information, contact Ashley VandeBossche at the Richland County Health Department at (406) 433-2207.