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Visit your primary care doctor for an annual physical. If you don't have a primary care doctor, you can find one by downloading the fepblue app or using our National Doctor and Hospital Finder.
Early Detection of Breast Cancer: The Importance of Regular Screenings
Getting regular screenings is the best way to find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat successfully. The purpose of screenings is to detect breast cancer before symptoms like a lump appear. Early detection through screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Updated screening guidelines
As of April 30, 2024, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that all women at average risk for breast cancer get screened every two years, starting at age 40 until age 74. This change highlights the importance of starting regular screenings earlier, which used to be recommended between ages 40 and 50.
Screening recommendations for women and those assigned female at birth:
- Ages 40-74: Start getting mammograms every two years beginning at age 40.
- Ages 75 and older: Talk to your doctor about whether you still need screenings, as it depends on your health.
Understanding mammograms
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that allows radiologists to examine breast tissue for changes that might indicate cancer. Mammograms can detect potential issues years before physical symptoms develop.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that allows radiologists to examine breast tissue for changes that might indicate cancer. Mammograms can detect potential issues years before physical symptoms develop.
Free preventive screenings
No member should have to weigh the cost of preventive care. With the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program (FEP), preventive cancer screenings like those for breast, cervical and colon are free when you see a Preferred provider. Talk to your doctor about adding these screenings.
No member should have to weigh the cost of preventive care. With the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program (FEP), preventive cancer screenings like those for breast, cervical and colon are free when you see a Preferred provider. Talk to your doctor about adding these screenings.
Scheduling your screening
Booking your screening is easier than you might think and it's an important step in taking charge of your health. When you see your doctor for your yearly checkup, make sure to talk openly about your health history and any worries you might have. Your doctor will then suggest the best screenings for you.
Booking your screening is easier than you might think and it's an important step in taking charge of your health. When you see your doctor for your yearly checkup, make sure to talk openly about your health history and any worries you might have. Your doctor will then suggest the best screenings for you.
Remember, prevention is power
The journey to a healthier tomorrow begins with the steps we take today. FEP stands by each member, offering the tools and support needed to navigate this path confidently. Schedule your routine annual physical today. Your health is worth it.
The journey to a healthier tomorrow begins with the steps we take today. FEP stands by each member, offering the tools and support needed to navigate this path confidently. Schedule your routine annual physical today. Your health is worth it.
Visit your primary care doctor for an annual physical. If you don't have a primary care doctor, you can find one by downloading the fepblue app or using our National Doctor and Hospital Finder.
Published on: October 10, 2024
