About Mammograms

A mammogram is a special, low-dose X-ray that takes a picture of the breast. According to WomensHealth.gov, it is the best way to detect breast cancer early. With early detection, breast cancer can be treated while in the first stages, and recovery is more likely. The National Cancer Institute reports that the number of breast cancer deaths declined for women ages 40 to 69 because of the use of mammograms.

Types

There are two main types of mammograms. A screening mammogram, which is most common, detects cancer in women with no symptoms. It finds cancers too early to be detected by other methods. A diagnostic mammogram is used to check for cancer after a lump or other signs are discovered.

Guidelines

Women over age 40 should have a screening mammogram every one to two years, according to the National Cancer Institute. Women who are at a higher risk should consult with their doctor about having a mammogram before age 40. If you've had breast cancer previously, your doctor will likely order regular mammograms because you are at higher risk of developing it again. If your mother, sister or a daughter developed breast cancer before age 50, you are at higher risk and should talk with your doctor about how early and how often to have a mammogram.

Procedure

A screening mammogram takes about 15 minutes to complete. You stand in front of a special X-ray machine, and a technician compresses your breast between two plates. Flattening the breast tissue allows for the clearest image. Generally, you will have two X-rays done of each breast. Then a radiologist will read the X-ray and advise your doctor of the results.

Follow-up

If abnormalities like a lump are discovered on your mammogram, your doctor will like schedule a diagnostic mammogram to get as much information as possible. Your physician will also likely recommend a biopsy where a sample of the lump is removed and examined for cancer. Depending upon the results, your doctor may order further treatment.

Implants

Women with breast implants should not forgo a mammogram. There are special procedures for having a mammogram if you have implants. When you make a mammogram appointment, make sure you advise them so that a specially trained technician is available.

Limitations

Sometimes mammograms give a false positive and do not find abnormalities. The reverse is also true. Sometimes the radiologist who reads the mammogram will find an abnormality, but there is no cancer. This is especially true for younger women who have denser breast tissue, making the X-ray harder to read. However, mammograms remain one of the most effective methods to detect breast cancer.

References

• National Cancer Institute--Screening Mammograms
• WomensHealth.gov--Division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Service

Resources

• Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation