This information is provided as a service by Broward Health. As always, consult with your doctor. If you need to find a doctor, visit BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor.
Margaret Lott, M.D., is an internal medicine expert with the Broward Health Physician Group. Dr. Lott sees patients at Annie L. Weaver Health Care, 2011 NW Third Ave., Pompano Beach. What is breast cancer? Breast cancer starts as a tumor in the breast. It can attack surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body.
What is a mammogram? It’s the best way to detect breast cancer before physical symptoms develop. A low-dose x-ray can help find signs of tumors earlier.
Who should get a mammogram? Doctors say women ages 40 - 44 can start getting mammograms every year. Women ages 45 - 54 should get a mammogram every year. Women 55 and older can get a mammogram every other year.
Who should get a mammogram before age 40? It’s recommended that women who are at a high risk for breast cancer should be tested. Some high risks include dense breasts, having a close relative who had breast cancer or having a BRCA1 or BRCA 2 gene mutation.
How to get a mammogram: Talk with your doctor. Breast cancer screening services are available at Broward Health’s four hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers. Depending on your circumstances, free or low-cost screenings may be available. To find out if you’re eligible, call 954-355-5442.
