Breast cancer is a serious health concern for women worldwide, and early detection is key to successful treatment and improved outcomes. Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is a newer imaging technique that uses a contrast agent to enhance the visibility of breast tissue, potentially improving the accuracy of breast cancer detection. In this article, we will discuss how often women should undergo CEM.
The frequency of CEM screenings can vary depending on individual risk factors and healthcare provider recommendations. In general, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer begin annual mammograms at age 45, and continue annual screenings until age 54. After age 54, women may transition to biennial mammograms, or they may choose to continue annual screenings. For women at higher risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease, healthcare providers may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings.
CEM may be recommended for women who have dense breast tissue or who have had inconclusive results on a traditional mammogram. In these cases, healthcare providers may recommend CEM in addition to or instead of a traditional mammogram. The frequency of CEM screenings will depend on individual risk factors and healthcare provider recommendations.
It is important to note that CEM is not a substitute for regular mammograms, and women should continue to undergo regular mammograms as recommended by their healthcare providers. Regular mammograms are an important tool in the early detection of breast cancer and can help identify cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.
In conclusion, the frequency of CEM screenings will depend on individual risk factors and healthcare provider recommendations. Women should continue to undergo regular mammograms as recommended by their healthcare providers, and may be recommended for CEM if they have dense breast tissue or have had inconclusive results on a traditional mammogram. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions about breast cancer screening with your healthcare provider.