Breast cancer: when to have a mammogram, if you have a family history

Early detection remains one of the most critical tools in combating breast cancer. In a recent column published by La Nación, Dr. Jorge Tartaglione outlined key guidelines for women regarding when to undergo a mammogram, particularly emphasizing the importance of early screening for those with family histories of the disease. The discussion was prompted by the public disclosure of Caro Trippar, a social media influencer with over two million followers on YouTube and half a million on Instagram, who revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer with metastases. Trippar shared her experience of several months spent undergoing numerous tests and therapy before deciding to make her diagnosis public. She expressed that she now feels strong and ready to share her story, stating, “Today I feel strong. I feel it’s time to share this. I have cancer.” Her openness highlights the importance of timely medical attention and the value of early detection. Dr. Tartaglione praised her courage and used her case to encourage young women not to delay consultations or preventive screenings. The mammogram, a radiological test designed to identify small breast lesions even before they can be felt through touch, is recommended starting at age 40, according to Tartaglione. He emphasized that regular annual screenings should be conducted based on a woman's specific risk factors and guidance from her gynecologist. “The most important piece of information I want to give you is that you must get a mammogram. When? At age 40,” he stated during his column. A key advantage of the mammogram lies in its ability to detect anomalies that have not yet manifested as palpable lumps. According to Tartaglione, these imaging techniques can identify lesions measuring around 0.5 centimeters. Therefore, physical examination alone should not replace medical imaging or professional consultation. “Mammography detects very small lesions. This is important,” he added, urging women to review when their last screening took place. For women with a family history of breast cancer, particularly among mothers, aunts, or grandmothers, the recommended age for beginning mammograms could be significantly earlier. Tartaglione advised consulting a healthcare provider to start screenings approximately ten years prior to the age at which a relative received their diagnosis. For example, if a family member was diagnosed at 40, the woman should begin screenings at 30. The exact timing and frequency of screenings should be determined individually with a gynecologist due to varying levels of risk among patients. In addition to genetic predisposition, other factors such as smoking, obesity, and hypertension were noted as potential contributors to breast cancer. Tartaglione also mentioned that the condition is relatively rare before the age of 30, though when it does occur at an early stage, there may be a significant hereditary component. Dr. Tartaglione highlighted the positive outlook associated with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. “The very positive point is that nine out of every ten cases can be cured. And this is extremely important,” he said. However, he also pointed out that approximately 22,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, equivalent to roughly 60 diagnoses per day.