If you or someone you know has been touched by cancer, contact THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER AWARENESS, for information and support.

• Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman in good health

• If you have sensitive breasts, try having your mammogram at a time of the month when your breasts will be least tender. Try to avoid the week right before your period. This will help lessen the discomfort.

• The procedure will require you to undress to the waist, but you will be given a gown to wear.

• Deodorant, powder, or cream under your arms may interfere with the quality of the mammogram.

• Only you and the technologist who positions your breasts will be present for the mammogram, and most technologists are women.

• The entire procedure should take about 20 minutes and should include two views of each breast.

Remember: If you have a lump in your breast, you will need more tests even if your mammogram is normal.