WAIT!
If I had waited until I was 40 to have my first mammogram... well, I wouldn't have made it to 40. I, more than likely, would not have made it past 36 years old. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer at the age of 33. I remember joking with my doctor when he prescribed the mammogram after manually discovering the mass in my left breast. I told him, "I'm too young for a mammogram! I'm not going to be 40 for another 7 years!" The results of that mammogram started the process of saving my life. Thank you Dr. Cooper.
Waiting until the age of 40 to recommend yearly mammogram screenings works against the theory that early detection of breast cancer saves lives, especially when women are being diagnosed younger and younger all the time. I have met women 10 years younger than myself who were being treated for breast cancer. The mystical age of "40" seems an unfair target (and much like a death sentence) for the younger spectrum of those suffering with the disease. Last month, I had a follow-up appointment, in which a mammogram of my right breast was required. The Explanation of Benefits I received for the visit showed that the cost of the mammogram would not be covered by my provider because my "policy provides coverage for mammography screening for women age 35 or over". At the time I received the mammogram, I was exactly 34 years and 329 days old. Considering that my provider knows full well that I have been tested, diagnosed, and treated for breast cancer, it seems ludicrous that coverage of the mammogram would be denied because of my age. That, sadly, is the business of Health Insurance and a very good example of why this country needs Health INSURANCE Reform. I have yet to dispute this ridiculous matter with my insurance provider, but I plan to. I just can't get past the absurdity of the circumstances.
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