Risks of Skipping Mammograms

COVID-19 certainly disrupted the screening cycle, according to the American Medical Association nearly 51% of patients have skipped preventative medical care during the past year. And while a short-term delay may have little to no effect on a patient’s diagnosis and course of the disease, there’s worry that longer delays may lead to a later-stage diagnosis that requires more intense treatment.

The screening recommendations below apply to average-risk women. Women at increased risk may need different test or may need to be tested more often.

• Age 25 to 39: Get a clinical breast exam every one to three years.
• Age 40 and older: Get a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year.

Our very own Dr. Arlene Ricardo recently discussed the importance of not skipping your mammogram on “Fox26 For Health” with Melissa Wilson.

So when should you schedule your screening mammogram?