Breast Health and Mammography

It is recommended that women start having mammography screenings starting at about the age of 40, and it becomes more difficult to obtain these services if you have a disability. Difficulties in obtaining these services can occur when there are challenges in mobility, spasticity, and communication.

Planning ahead can help reduce potential barriers to having a successful appointment. Potential issues to consider are: preparing to schedule the first appointment, needing extra time, getting into the room, possibly even needing care assistance to disrobe and to properly gown, to getting close to the machine. The mammography procedure may also be painful, and may require a certain amount of stillness.

Every time that I meet a family and their child, especially if it's a little girl, I'm thinking into the future about their preventative services and their ability to obtain services throughout their lifespan. We know that there's a disparity of use of services for women with a disability, and we really want to help try to solve that problem.

Working with the technologist helps ensure a positive screening experience.