When was your last mammogram? If you don’t know the answer, take a minute to look through your calendar or call your family physician.

New research suggests that nationwide COVID-19 prevention efforts from 2020-21 have resulted in an overall decrease in patients receiving routine care. Experts now fear this delay could lead to an increase in future deaths from certain cancers, including breast cancer.  

This trend hits close to home. U-M Health Plan members' compliance with mammogram screening recommendations decreased 4 percent in 2020, compared to 2019.

A Window Inside

Mammogram, a basic X-ray of the breast and its surrounding tissue, is one of the best windows into abnormalities that could be cancerous. Nearly one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer within their lifetimes. That's a profound reason to reschedule now if you put off your mammogram during the pandemic.

U-M’s Health Plans cover screening mammograms with no copay. The imaging itself takes just a few minutes.

COVID-19 Vaccine and Scheduling

However, if you received your COVID-19 vaccination recently, be mindful that the body's immune response to the vaccine may cause temporarily enlarged lymph nodes that can result in a false positive mammogram screening. It's best to schedule your screening mammogram four-to-six weeks after your last COVID-19 vaccination. Talk to your family physician if you have additional questions.

Annual or Not?

Many women became accustomed to annual mammograms as part of yearly preventive checkups. Guidelines have changed in recent years, with recommendations now based on age and risk factors.

Experts also have revised recommendations about performing breast self-exams. However, women at higher risk are still encouraged to perform self-checks regularly. And if you experience unusual symptoms, such as discharge, sudden growths, warmth or skin changes, call your family doctor immediately.

Breast Cancer in Men

Although it’s rare for a man to develop breast cancer, knowing your family history is crucial. Risk factors for men include genetics, previous hormone and radiation treatments, and liver disease. Early detection is key to receiving the correct diagnosis and treatment. More information is available here. 

More at MHealthy

MHealthy, in partnership with the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, has compiled a collection of cancer prevention resources to help you determine when you should have your first mammogram, what to expect during a screening, what to know about male breast cancer, and more.