Do women need screening mammograms after menopause?

Yes. More than 85 percent of breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 50. The risk is even greater among women over the age of 60. The disease is not common in women under age 40.

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. A screening mammogram is used to look for breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-rays of each breast. Screening mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, before a tumor can be felt or symptoms appear. Studies show that regular screening mammograms can reduce breast cancer deaths by 25 to 30 percent among women age 50 to 69.

It is not clear how often women should have mammograms. Many women have them every year. All women should talk with their doctor about risk factors for breast cancer, when to begin mammograms, and how often to have them.

Women can get mammograms in breast clinics, radiology departments of hospitals, mobile vans, private radiology offices, and doctors' offices. All mammography facilities must post a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certificate showing they meet strict federal guidelines. All facilities also must give patients an easy-to-read report on the results of their mammogram.

Mammograms usually cost between $50 and $150. Most insurance companies pay for all or part of the test. Medicare pays 80 percent of the cost of a screening mammogram each year for beneficiaries age 40 and older. For more information about Medicare coverage, call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227).

For information on FDA-certified mammography facilities in your area, call the NCI's Cancer Information Service toll-free at 1-800-4-CANCER.

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