That must have been such a hard time for you losing your mum at a young age. Yes you must be vigilant.

I agree wholeheartedly, Margi59. I have been having a mammogram and ultrasound every year since I was in my mid twenties. I also come from a family where 4 of my 5 sisters have had breast cancer as well as my maternal grandmother.

Even being this vigilant I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the end of January 2018 before my yearly checkup. I was 62 at the time. The treatment is very demanding but thankfully I am good at the moment.

I personally feel that 50 is way too late to start having mammograms.

If you suspect something is not right DON`T LEAVE IT, HAVE IT CHECKED .

50 is way too late to start having mammograms.

Very good and close friend had a lump at 45 – breast cancer and lump removed. 2 years later another lump (same side) with breast removed and chemo and radiotherapy. 10 years on, she still lives with a “”dark cloud hanging over her”” (her words) and constantly worries with every ache or pain. Last week has seen her undergo brain scans (due to symptoms last few weeks), scan on pancreas with heart tests to come – putting her through hell.

I agree that 50 is too late to start having mammograms and unfortunately your friend`s experience with breast cancer, although very sad, is not uncommon.

Having had breast cancer and still being in contact with women undergoing various stages of treatment, I am only just realising how complex a disease cancer is and that the doctors are also on a huge learning curve.

Needless to say, cancer is a very scary disease and having good friends and family around at this very challenging period in your life makes a big difference.

I had no family history or suspected lumps when I started getting regular mammograms. I believe in getting all of my pokes & prods & scans – then I relax for 2 years. No matter what you might have, early detection gives you the best chance!

Yes Mis8 you need to be checked regularly and be conscious of any changes that may occur and have them looked at asap.

Marclaire I have a mammogram and ultrasound every year sometimes I feel like I shouldn`t bother at times especially when my mammogram and ultrasound are clear.
But You are so right it is better to remain vigilant. So sorry that you have had breast cancer! So glad that everything is alright for you at the moment.

I will keep getting them done even if I don`t have anything found, because you never know if there could be a lump one day.
Wishing You a Lovely Long Weekend!

The only way is to be vigilant as early detection is what really helped me. Especially as you, like me, also have cancer in your immediate family.

Keep up the good work and thank you for your kind wishes .

You`re right, mis8. I started at age 40 and I`ve now had 13 mammograms done. I can never work out why they advertise from age 50 because the sooner anything is detected the sooner it can be treated. There must be thousands of women missing out on free breast screening because they aren`t aware they are eligible.

EXACTLY! I`ve mentioned it on this forum quite a few times, too. I tell everyone I know to get one. Personally, I think it`s worse than a pap smear, but it might save my life, so I do it!