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How You Can Support Breast Cancer Screening Conversations

When it comes to breast cancer screening, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—and that’s where your role as a Community Health Worker is so important. You can help people understand their screening options, feel less overwhelmed, and connect them to the care that best fits their needs.

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This section provides you with the tools to discuss various screening methods clearly and confidently, enabling you to guide community members through their breast health journey.

breast cancer screening conversation

How You Can Support Breast Cancer Screening Conversations

Explain the Basics of Screening

Start with what’s most familiar: the mammogram. But also let people know that other tools exist, especially for those with dense breasts or higher risk. These may include:

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  • Mammograms – the most common screening test, often the first step

  • Ultrasound – helpful for dense breast tissue or follow-up after a mammogram for resource limited screening

  • MRI – used for people at higher risk or when more detailed imaging is needed

  • Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) – a newer option that offers more detailed images than a standard mammogram

 

Each test has its strengths and limitations. Your job isn’t to recommend tests, but to help people understand their options and encourage them to talk with their provider about what’s best for them.

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Promote Personalized Screening Plans

Help individuals understand that:

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  • Screening recommendations vary depending on risk level, age, and breast density

  • Some may need to start earlier, screen more often, or use supplemental tests

  • Knowing your risk helps guide which screening tools make sense

 

Encourage people to ask questions and speak up about their preferences and concerns during medical appointments.

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Break Down Barriers

You can help remove common barriers to screening by:

  • Explaining what each test involves to reduce fear or confusion

  • Helping individuals find local screening sites, especially those that are low-cost, free, or covered by insurance

  • Supporting transportation, language interpretation, or appointment scheduling when possible

  • Reassuring individuals that it’s okay to ask for help or bring a trusted person with them

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Normalize the Experience

Fear, stigma, or uncertainty can prevent people from getting screened. You can help by:

  • Sharing that early detection saves lives

  • Letting people know they’re not alone—screening is a regular, preventive step that many go through

  • Using simple, respectful language to explain that screening doesn’t mean something is wrong—it’s about staying informed

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You Are a Trusted Guide

With your support, more people can access the information and care they need—on their terms. By helping others understand their screening options and encouraging open conversations with providers, you’re making a lasting difference in community health.

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Let’s keep breaking down barriers, one conversation at a time.

Community healthworker breast screening

Helping Your Community Get the Best Breast Cancer Screening

As a Community Health Worker, you’re often the first point of contact for people navigating the healthcare system. When it comes to breast cancer detection, you can help others start with high-quality screenings and feel confident in making informed decisions.

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This section equips you with the information and language you need to guide individuals through the breast screening process, from understanding where to go to knowing which tools may be right for them.

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Start with a High-Quality Mammogram

As a Community Health Worker, you are in a trusted position to help individuals access the highest quality breast cancer screening available. Use the following guidance to support informed decision-making and advocate for better care.

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  • A Breast Imaging Specialist

Encourage individuals to seek out radiologists who specialize in breast imaging, rather than general radiologists. These specialists are trained to detect subtle signs of breast cancer and are often based in dedicated breast centers or accredited facilities.

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  • An Accredited Facility:

Direct individuals to facilities accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in breast imaging. These centers meet high standards for safety, image quality, and expertise.

🔗 Search ACR-accredited facilities

🔗 Find ACR-ImPower Outstanding Performance facilities

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  • 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis): 

Advise individuals to ask about 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), especially those with dense breast tissue. Compared to traditional 2D mammograms, 3D provides clearer images and improves detection rates.

 

Note: 3D mammography should be considered a standard of care when available, not just a supplemental option. However, mammagraphy may not be recommended for everyone. Factors like age, prior radiation exposure, or specific medical history (such as a mastectomy or certain genetic conditions) can influence which screening method is safest and most effective. Always encourage individuals to discuss the best option with their healthcare provider.

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Tip: If someone has had a mastectomy, they may not need routine mammograms. Help them ask their provider what surveillance is appropriate.

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Help Them Understand Timing

Screening guidelines vary based on individual risk. Here’s how you can guide conversations:

  • Average Risk: Most women should begin annual mammograms at age 40.

  • Higher Risk: Some individuals may need to start earlier or undergo screening more frequently. This depends on personal and family history, breast density, lifestyle, and other risk factors. 

 

Encourage individuals to discuss timing with their provider and help them come prepared with key information.

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Introduce Supplemental Screening Options

Not everyone needs more than a mammogram, but for those at higher risk, including women with dense breasts, additional screening can be life-saving. You can help explain:

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Help people understand that these are not replacements for mammograms but may be added based on their risk. Support them in asking their provider which options may be right for them.

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Encourage Personalized Plans

Help your community avoid one-size-fits-all care.

 

You can:

  • Promote Self-Advocacy: Encourage them to ask questions and make sure their provider considers their unique risk factors.

  • Suggest Adjustments: People with higher risk may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening, or a combination of tools.

  • Reinforce Second Opinions: Let them know it’s okay to speak up, ask questions, or seek a second opinion if something doesn’t feel right.

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Reminder: Your support builds confidence. A little encouragement goes a long way when people are navigating unfamiliar healthcare decisions.

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Help Them Prepare for Appointments

Preparation can make screening conversations more productive.

 

Encourage individuals to:

  • Bring records of past screenings if possible.

  • Be aware of their breast density and how it affects their screening choices.

  • Use a checklist (like our printable Screening Checklist) to keep track of questions and concerns.

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You can even walk them through the checklist ahead of time.

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You Make Informed Screening Possible

Breast cancer screening isn’t just about getting a test—it’s about getting the right test at the right time, based on a person’s unique needs. By supporting individuals to understand their options, speak up, and plan ahead, you’re helping them protect their health and their future.

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Your work brings clarity, compassion, and trust to this process. Let’s make sure no one navigates breast cancer screening alone.

Undestanding  Breast Screening Options

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