The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released new guidance surrounding when women should schedule their mammograms and when they should get a Covid-19 booster. In light of the pandemic, the USPSTF is now recommending that women aged 50-74 years old should get a mammogram every other year instead of yearly. They are also recommending that women under the age of 50 should consult with their doctor to determine if a mammogram is right for them. As for the Covid-19 booster, the USPSTF is now recommending that people aged 60 and up should get the vaccine. This is a change from their previous guidance, which said that people aged 65 and up should get the vaccine. These updated recommendations come as we are learning more about both breast cancer and Covid-19. While this guidance may change in the future as we learn more, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest recommendations so that you can make the best decision for your health.
When to get a mammogram
The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging recommend that women with an average risk of breast cancer get a mammogram every year starting at age 40. Women with a higher than average risk should talk to their doctor about when to start getting mammograms and how often to get them.
Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances are for successful treatment. In fact, if caught early, the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer is 99%.
Covid-19 has changed how we do many things in our lives, but it shouldn’t stop you from getting your annual mammogram. Your health is always a top priority and mammograms are essential for early detection of breast cancer.
If you’re scheduled for a mammogram and are worried about Covid-19, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:
· Check with your radiologist or facility ahead of time to see what they’re doing to keep patients safe from Covid-19. Many facilities have implemented extra safety measures such as social distancing, mask requirements, and increased cleaning and sanitization protocols.
· Schedule your appointment for a time when the facility is less crowded. This will help you avoid contact with other people and reduce your risk of exposure to Covid-19.
· Make sure
When to get a Covid-19 booster
It is unclear when or if people will need a Covid-19 booster shot, according to new guidance from the American College of Radiology (ACR). The guidance, released on Wednesday, says that people who have received a full course of vaccines should continue to get mammograms and other cancer screenings on schedule.
The guidance does not address the issue of booster shots specifically, but it says that people should not delay their screenings because they are waiting for a booster. “There is no evidence that Covid-19 vaccination will impact the results of your mammogram,” the guidance says.
The ACR’s guidance is in line with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has said that people who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 can continue to participate in activities like going to the movies or attending small gatherings.
How often to get a mammogram
It is now recommended that women get a mammogram every year starting at age 45. If you are younger than 45, you should talk to your doctor about when to start getting mammograms and how often to get them.
The new guidance also recommends that women ages 50-74 get a Covid-19 vaccine booster shot every 5 years.
How often to get a Covid-19 booster
The CDC recommends that people who have received a full series of Covid-19 vaccines (i.e. 2 doses for Pfizer or Moderna, or 1 dose for Johnson & Johnson) get a booster shot of the vaccine every 3-5 years to maintain immunity against the virus. However, the exact schedule for boosters has not been determined yet and may vary depending on the individual's age, health, and other factors.
What to expect during your mammogram
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It is used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women with an average risk of breast cancer get a mammogram every year starting at age 45.
If you are due for a mammogram, you may be wondering what to expect during the exam. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect before, during, and after your mammogram:
Before Your Mammogram
You will need to remove all clothing from the waist up and put on a hospital gown.
You will be asked to stand in front of the x-ray machine.
Your breasts will be placed one at a time on the x-ray plate and compressed with a paddle.
The compression may be uncomfortable, but it is important in order to get clear images.
During Your Mammogram
The technologist will take 2 views of each breast – one from the side and one from above.
Each view takes about 5-10 seconds.
After Your Mammogram
Once the pictures are done, you will be able to get dressed and go home.
The radiologist will review your mammogram and send a report to your doctor within 1-2 weeks.
Conclusion
The recent guidance from the American Cancer Society on scheduling your mammogram and Covid-19 booster is very important. This will help ensure that you are getting the most accurate information possible, and that you are up to date on the latest research. It is always best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health, but this guidance can be a great starting point.
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