The Importance of Mammography Screenings

New Jersey ranks among the top ten states in the country for both incidence and mortality rates for breast cancer.  Particularly at risk are the low-income, the working poor, and uninsured women. 

There are 586,300 uninsured women living in New Jersey, and 12,511 women living in Camden County live at or below 250% of the poverty level.  Only 48% of women in Camden County reported having a mammogram within the past year. 

Why should you get a mammogram?

• Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for all women.
• More than 80% of breast cancers are found in women who have no family history.
• A mammogram can find breast cancer up to two years before it can be felt.
• A mammogram is easy to arrange and may cost little or nothing.

The American Cancer Society recommends ALL women follow these guidelines:

• Yearly mammograms starting at age 40.
• A clinical breast exam (CE) as part of a periodic health exam about every three years for women in their 20's and 30's, and every year for women 40 and older.
• Women should report any breast change promptly to their health care provider.  Breast self-examination (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20's.