Four reasons why women should have regular mammograms

We see pink ribbons all the time. We know that represents breast cancer. But what do you know about breast cancer? Do you actively screen for it? Do you schedule regular mammograms to monitor for the development of breast cancer? Though many women are aware of breast cancer and how significant it is in women today, many do not take the steps necessary to screen for it regularly. To do so, women will undergo an imaging treatment known as a mammogram. This is provided at McKinney, TX area practices such as that of Dr. Craig Ranch. These tests are vital to finding breast cancer and seeking early and effective treatment before it becomes worse. 

So why should women undergo regular mammograms? 

• Screening saves lives. Mammography is used during the screening process to look for early signs of breast cancer. Women who are screened regularly have  a significant decrease in chances of dying from breast cancer by approximately 30%. This simple step each year can make a dramatic difference in the outcome following diagnosis.
• Early detection increases survival rate. Women who catch breast cancer in the earliest stages when it is localized and hasn’t spread have a survival rate of approximately 98%. This drops dramatically if the cancer has spread throughout the body (metastasized), dropping to 25% in five years.
• Age increases risk. With each passing year, women will have an increased chance of developing breast cancer. We encourage patients to start mammograms at the age of 40 and have them performed once a year.
• Screenings are fast. Mammography takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, and is often part of an annual gynecological examination. There’s no excuse for not having this done regularly!

Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Craig Ranch 

Don’t let your breast health fall by the wayside during your busy, active life—schedule a mammogram now and maintain annual visits to ensure you catch the signs of breast cancer in the earliest stages. Dr. Craig Ranch and his team are located at 7900 Henneman Way, Suite #100 in McKinney, TX and an appointment can be scheduled by calling the front office at (214) 544-6600.