Mammography is a standard screening test that uses low-dose X-rays to detect any abnormality in a woman’s breast tissue. This test can help diagnose breast cancer early, saving millions of lives around the globe.
However, there are still many myths and truths swirling around the mammogram procedure.
Myth #1: Mammogram Radiation Can Cause Cancer
Most women worry about mammography radiation causing cancer. However, the amount of radiation used during a mammogram test is minimal and not enough to harm your breast tissue.
The radiation exposure during a mammogram test is similar to the exposure level you would get from the natural environment throughout a year.
Myth #2: Mammogram is Only for Women With a Family History of Breast Cancer
Although having a family history of breast cancer can increase your risk of developing the disease, it is not a mandatory criterion for mammography screening. In fact, over 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.
It is recommended that all women above the age of 40 undergo a mammogram every one to two years, regardless of their family history of breast cancer.
Myth #3: Mammography is Painful
The mammogram test can be uncomfortable, but it does not cause severe pain. The compression of breast tissues done during the test should last for a few seconds and may cause slight discomfort.
The compression of the breast tissue becomes necessary to make the X-ray images clearer, thus allowing the radiologist to look for any abnormalities.
Truth #1: Early Detection is Key
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide, and early detection is the key to improving survival rates.
Regular mammography screening can help detect breast cancer at an early stage when treatment options are less invasive and more effective.
Truth #2: Women With Dense Breasts Should Consider Additional Screening
Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer than those with less dense breasts. Dense breast tissue can make it harder to detect abnormalities via mammography.
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Additional screening in the form of ultrasounds, MRIs, or molecular breast imaging can be used to conduct a more comprehensive evaluation for women with dense breast tissue.
Truth #3: Mammography Screening is Not 100% Accurate
Although mammography is highly accurate in detecting breast cancer, it is not a foolproof test. There is a chance of getting a false-negative or a false-positive result from a mammogram.
A false-negative result occurs when a mammogram misses the existing cancer, while a false-positive result occurs when mammography detects an abnormality that is not cancer. Any abnormality detected via mammography should be subjected to further testing via biopsy.
What Tests to Consider for Breast Cancer Diagnosis?
Apart from a mammogram, there are other diagnostic tests that can be used to evaluate any abnormalities detected in your breast tissue. Some of these tests include:.
1. Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate the breast tissue. It can help distinguish between a cyst and a solid mass in the breast.
2. MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced imaging technique that produces detailed images of the breast tissue. MRI is recommended for women with dense breast tissue or who are at high risk of developing breast cancer.
3. Biopsy
Biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of breast tissue and examines it under a microscope to determine if it’s cancerous.
There are different types of biopsy procedures, including ultrasound-guided biopsy, stereotactic biopsy, and MRI-guided biopsy.
Conclusion
Mammography is a critical screening test for women over the age of 40. Regular screening can help detect breast cancer early, and early detection is key to improving survival rates.
Although mammography screening is not 100% accurate, additional tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy can help evaluate any abnormalities detected in the breast tissue. Women with dense breast tissue should consider additional screening tests to increase their chances of detecting breast cancer early.
