Breast Cancer Screening in Columbia, MD and Greenbelt, MD

Breast cancer screening is a preventive healthcare practice focused on identifying signs of breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage—often before symptoms develop. The goal is to reduce the risk of severe illness or death by detecting abnormalities early, when treatment is more likely to be successful. Screening does not diagnose cancer directly, but it helps spot changes in breast tissue that may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Regular screening is especially important because breast cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms. By incorporating screening into routine care, individuals are better equipped to stay informed about their breast health and take timely action if needed. Risk factors such as age, family history, and lifestyle may influence how often screening is recommended, making personalized care essential.

At Women’s Wellness MD, Dr. Chetanna Okasi, MD, a Board-Certified OB-GYN, and her team provide thorough breast health evaluations as part of their commitment to women’s preventive care. We emphasize education, awareness, and individualized guidance to ensure each patient understands their screening options and feels supported throughout the process. Early detection through regular screening plays a vital role in improving outcomes and empowering individuals to take charge of their health.

The question of when women should begin breast cancer screening is both important and increasingly nuanced. Unlike fixed medical recommendations for some conditions, breast cancer screening guidelines continue to evolve based on emerging research, shifting demographics, and the growing emphasis on personalized care. This dynamic nature makes the age to start screening a uniquely individualized decision.

Recently, major organizations have updated their recommendations, now advising that average-risk women begin breast cancer screening at age 40. This is a notable shift from previous guidelines that suggested starting at age 50 or initiating conversations between ages 40–49. The change reflects rising breast cancer rates among younger women and growing evidence that early detection beginning at age 40 can save more lives, particularly in underserved and high-risk populations.

What truly sets today’s guidance apart is its emphasis on personalized risk assessment. Screening decisions are increasingly guided not just by age, but by factors such as family history, genetic mutations, breast density, and overall health history. For high-risk individuals, screening may begin in their 20s or 30s. This shift toward tailored screening strategies recognizes that risk is not uniform, and it prioritizes equity and early intervention.

At Women’s Wellness MD, we are dedicated to helping you take charge of your health through every stage of life. One of the most important parts of preventive care is routine cancer screening, which can help detect cancer early, often before symptoms appear and when treatment is most effective.

The ideal schedule for cancer screenings depends on several factors, including your age, personal and family health history, and unique risk factors. Our providers at Women’s Wellness MD will work with you to create a personalized screening plan, but here are general guidelines for women:

Breast Cancer:
Mammograms are typically recommended to begin between the ages of 40 and 50. Most women benefit from a mammogram every 1–2 years, depending on individual risk. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, we may recommend starting earlier or screening more frequently.

Cervical Cancer:
Pap smears (Pap tests) usually begin at age 21. From 21 to 29, a Pap test every three years is standard. For women aged 30 to 65, a combination of Pap and HPV testing every five years—or a Pap test alone every three years—is recommended.

Other Screenings:
Depending on your history and risk profile, we may discuss additional screenings.

Screening recommendations can change as new research develops, and your risk may evolve over time, especially with changes in family history or health status. At Women’s Wellness MD, we take a proactive approach—reviewing your history at each visit and updating your screening plan as needed.

Early detection saves lives. Regular screenings can find cancer at an early stage, often before it causes symptoms and when treatment is most successful.

If you’re unsure when your next screening is due or if your family history has changed, schedule an appointment with Women’s Wellness MD. Our compassionate team is here to guide you and ensure you receive the right screenings at the right time for your healthiest future.

We are committed to making your breast cancer screening experience as comfortable and effective as possible. To help you prepare for your upcoming mammogram, we recommend the following steps:

• Schedule Wisely: Try to book your appointment for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender, typically about a week after your menstrual period. This can help minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

• Dress Comfortably: On the day of your screening, we suggest wearing a two-piece outfit. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist up, so this makes changing easier.

• Skip Lotions and Deodorants: Please avoid using deodorant, antiperspirant, lotions, powders, or perfumes on your breasts or underarms before your appointment. These products can contain ingredients that may show up on your mammogram and interfere with the results.

• Bring Your Medical Information: Be ready to discuss your personal and family medical history with our specialists, including any past breast concerns, surgeries, hormone treatments, or family history of breast cancer. If you have had previous mammograms at another facility, please arrange to have those images sent to Women’s Wellness MD or bring them with you, so we can compare results for the most accurate assessment.

• Share Any Symptoms: If you have noticed any changes in your breasts, such as lumps, pain, or changes in the skin, please inform our staff before your screening. Your concerns are important to us.

• Relax and Communicate: We understand that screenings can be stressful. Our caring team at Women’s Wellness MD is here to support you—let us know if you feel anxious or experience discomfort during your visit.

Your comfort and the accuracy of your results are our top priorities at Women’s Wellness MD. Proper preparation ensures the best possible breast cancer screening and peace of mind for you. If you have any questions before your appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have convenient locations to serve you in Columbia, MD & Greenbelt, MD. We serve patients from Columbia MD, Greenbelt MD, Ellicott City MD, Jessup MD, Savage MD, New Carrollton MD, College Park MD, Beltsville MD, Bowie MD, and surrounding areas.