The ages we’re told to get screened for different cancers often sound so clear and official, like they’re set in stone. But really, they’re more like guidelines. Every person is unique, with their own mix of genetics, risks, and life experiences.
For years, doctors told me the recommended age for mammogram screenings was 40. That’s what I’d always heard. But what I didn’t know is that women and men should actually start discussing risk assessments and screening options as early as age 25. And honestly, women and men shouldn’t hesitate to bring it up even earlier if they feel something is off or their risk is higher.
I made the same mistake so many of us make with doctor appointments: I put it off. I kept saying life was too crazy, work was too hectic, I didn’t have time, it was “on my list.” Meanwhile, I forgot something important — our bodies don’t wait for a calm week on our calendar. Our bodies are fragile, and things can change without warning. Viruses, diseases… they don’t care if we’re busy. And when something harmful shows up, our bodies go through hell trying to get rid of that uninvited guest.
Cancer begins when a cell’s DNA gets damaged, but often the exact cause of that damage is unknown. According to the American Cancer Society, about 5–10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary. Most people have heard of BRCA1 and BRCA2, but there are over 90 identified genes that can mutate and turn a healthy cell into a cancerous one.
Environmental and lifestyle factors play a role too: being overweight, being inactive, smoking, drinking, some plastics, pesticides, air pollutants — the list goes on. And I’m not going to pretend I was a picture of perfection. I drank for years. A lot at first. I smoked cigarettes for about eight years and vaped for twelve. By all accounts, you’d think lifestyle would’ve played a bigger part in my diagnosis.
But after all the testing I’ve done this year, my doctors are confident my cancer developed because of genetics — that small percentage we like to believe won’t apply to us. Because aside from that, my health is actually great. My liver, kidneys, and heart are in solid shape. My lungs look amazing. And still… here we are.
My point is this: even a small percentage is still a chance.
Don’t wait until you “hit the right age.” Don’t wait until you finally have time. Don’t wait until something feels wrong. Get checked. Ask questions. Start the conversation early. The sooner something is found, the sooner treatment can begin — and early detection truly makes a difference.
Whether it runs in your family or you’re worried you put your body through a little too much in your younger years, get screened. Your future self will thank you.
And one more thing: mammograms aren’t what they used to be. Technology has improved, and the doctors and technicians go above and beyond to make the process as gentle and comfortable as possible while still getting the clearest images.
Your health is worth the appointment.
Your life is worth the early check.
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