BELFAST — For women who feel nervous about getting a mammogram, Danielle Wight, lead mammography technologist at MaineHealth Waldo Hospital, has a simple message: don’t let fear stand in the way of a test that could save your life.

 

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that can detect breast cancer before symptoms develop or changes become noticeable, helping identify the disease when treatment is often most effective.

 

According to Danielle, anxiety about the unknown is one of the most common reasons patients postpone screening.

 

“We want to remove barriers and make it as easy as possible for patients to get their mammograms,” she said. “But fear is one of the biggest reasons women put off getting screened.”

 

In reality, the process is quick and straightforward. Appointments are scheduled in 15-minute time slots, and the imaging itself typically takes only about five minutes.

 

“Most women who come in for the first time are nervous,” Danielle said. “But when they leave, they’re like, ‘That was it? See you next year!’”

 

That reaction is one Danielle hears often, and it's why she encourages women not to let misconceptions keep them from making an appointment.

 

“Just come in and see us,” she said. “We’ll take the best care of you.”

 

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Regular screening mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer early, when treatment can have the most effect.

Routine screenings also allow care teams to compare images over time, making it easier to identify subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

 

If a screening mammogram reveals an area that needs closer evaluation, patients are not left to navigate the next steps alone. The mammography team works closely with primary care providers to coordinate any necessary follow-up testing and help guide patients through the process.

 

The American College of Radiology recommends that women begin annual screening mammograms at age 40, though individual recommendations may vary based on personal and family health history. Women are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider about their individual risk factors, recommended screening schedule and referral options.

 

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Danielle encourages women to replace fear with action.

 

“A mammogram is such an easy thing,” she said. “Don’t put it off. Taking a few minutes today could make all the difference tomorrow.”

To learn more about mammography, visit mainehealth.org/mammogram.