Mammograms are an important service for women. Women should get screenings every two years beginning at age 40. Getting a mammogram can lead to the early detection of breast cancer, which is the most common cancer for women.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Ask your PCP about scheduling a mammogram appointment today.
Mammograms are a covered service with your HFS medical card. Illinois Health Connect can help you schedule an appointment.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray. This X-ray shows the inside of your breast. Mammograms can find cancer up to two years before lumps can be felt. Finding the cancer early is important. Early detection provides women with better treatment options and results.
An average mammogram appointment takes roughly 20 minutes. Your breast will be placed on a shelf between two smooth, plastic plates. The breast needs to be spread flat for the X-ray to work properly. You will feel pressure, which can be somewhat uncomfortable.
Two or more X-rays will be taken of each breast. The doctor who reads your mammogram will compare the X-rays to your previous mammograms.
