Fewer women are getting mammograms these days, and that's troubling because it could have a major impact on women's health.

This is just the latest study that shows fewer women are getting mammograms. The American Cancer Society says it's a nationwide trend, not restricted to just a few states.

The drop in mamography is both puzzling and disturbing because breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death for women in this country behind lung cancer.

It will claim the lives on 40,000 women this year.

A regular mammogram is the one thing a woman can do to lower her chances of dying from breast cancer. That's why these findings are so astounding. More and more women are avoiding the test.

"Mammograms are for early detection. If we don't find breast cancers early, when we do find them, they'll take more aggressive treatment and the outcome may not be so good," said Dr. Judy Garber, of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

From 1987, the rate of women getting regular mammograms climbed steadily and peaked at 70 percent in 2000.

But since then, that four-percent drop to 66 percent means as many as three million fewer women in the U.S. are getting regular mammograms.

In some parts of the country mammogram centers shut down. But there are other possible explanations.

Some complain of discomfort during the procedure, and other women are worried about the cost.

In one recent survey, the most common reason women gave for not getting a mammogram, believe it or not, is that they just "didn't think about it."

One possible solution might be providing a simple reminder. There's evidence a routine phone call or email from a doctor's office encouraging women to make an appointment can actually boost the number of women getting this potentially life saving test.

The American Cancer Society says if this trend continues it could lead to more women dying from breast cancer.

The American Cancer Society urges all women to get a clinical breast exam each year once they reach 40. Health experts say women over 40 should also have a mammogram every year or two.

Just remember, mammography is not as accurate in younger women, so until you hit menopause, there is a greater chance of a false positive result when you take the test.

If you have a family history of breast cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor about any special testing you might want to consider.

For More Information:

Mammogram Rates Dropping Nationwide

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