2005 marks more than 20 years that National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) has educated women about early breast cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment. This year, NBCAM is again reaching out to women with several key messages, most notably, the importance of early detection through annual mammography screening for women over 40. Mammography screenings are a woman's best chance for detecting breast cancer early. When coupled with new treatment options, mammography screenings can significantly improve a woman's chances of survival.

No one is sure exactly what causes breast cancer. It results from the abnormal growth of cells in the breast, but researchers are still puzzled over exactly what causes that abnormal growth. Scientists are looking at the possible roles of heredity, lifestyle and diet in the development of all cancers. Remember that your chances of developing breast cancer increase as you age with two thirds of all breast cancers striking women over 50. That is why getting your annual mammogram is so important.

Last summer, 11 national health organizations joined together to endorse common guidelines for screening mammography. They agreed that a woman with no symptoms should receive her first mammogram at 40 and should have one every one to two years for the next ten years. At 50, she should have a mammogram and a physical every year. In certain instances, women under 40 should be tested more often. If you've had cancer in one breast, you'll need mammograms more often since the chances of having cancer in the other breast are increased by 30 percent. You may also need to be tested more frequently if your mother or a sister has had premenopausal breast cancer.

Even if you or someone close to you has cancer, help is available. The survival rate for breast cancer is very high, thanks to advances in early detection, improved surgical techniques and other updates in treatment. Plus, many organizations offer information and services for women with breast cancer. Call Great Basin Imaging today to schedule your mammogram and lean more about National Breast Cancer Month.