"I almost didn't go."
- lori563
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Why your mammogram can't wait
Danielle dreaded getting a mammogram. She told herself she was too busy, too healthy, too young to have cancer. “I almost didn’t go,” she admits, but then a co-worker strongly encouraged her. The scan revealed breast cancer. Fortunately, it was discovered early, and Danielle’s treatment was successful.
The number one reason to have a mammogram is clear: Early detection can save your life. Mammograms can find cancer long before it can otherwise be detected, giving you and your doctor time to begin treatment early.
Here are five more benefits to having a regular mammogram. It:
Provides more treatment options. When caught early, the cancer is often smaller and hasn’t spread. That means doctors can use less aggressive treatments, giving you more options and shorter recovery times.
Leads to better survival rates. When you’re diagnosed and treated early, your chances of long-term survival increase. In fact, breast cancer has a 99% five-year survival rate when it’s found before it spreads.
Creates a breast health record. Regular screenings establish a baseline for your breast health. Over time, this history can help your doctor notice even the smallest changes in breast tissue.
Spots other issues. Mammograms can also detect other non-cancerous breast conditions, like cysts, fibroadenomas or calcifications.
Provides peace of mind, knowing you’re doing all you can to protect your health.
What to know about screenings
Modern technology has improved the accuracy of mammograms and made them quicker and more comfortable. The test usually takes less than 20 minutes, and you can receive results within a few days.
Best of all, mammograms are covered at 100% by your MNPS medical plan.
How to schedule
If you’re due for a mammogram, you can schedule here with the Vanderbilt Breast Center.
If you’re due for a well-woman exam or just need to talk to a provider about how to get started with mammograms, call 615-259-8755 or schedule an appointment.
Mammograms are easy to put off. Life is busy. Fear creeps in. We tell ourselves we’ll schedule it later. But the truth is, a few minutes for a mammogram now could mean a lifetime as a survivor.