Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women worldwide. Early detection of the disease significantly increases the chances of a cure, which is why prevention is so important. One of the primary preventive tests is mammography. In this article you will learn everything you need to know about this test: what it consists of, when to perform it, how to prepare for it and what are its limitations.
What is mammography?
Mammography is a breast imaging test that uses X-rays. It allows detection of breast abnormalities, such as lumps, calcifications or deformities, which may indicate the presence of cancer. The test is quick, relatively painless and can save lives.
Types of mammography
There are two main types of mammography:
- Screening mammography: performed in women without symptoms of disease, for early detection of breast cancer.
- Diagnostic mammography: performed on women with symptoms such as a palpable lump, breast pain, nipple discharge, skin lesions. It is used to diagnose lesions detected by palpation or screening mammography.
Why is mammography important?
Mammography is one of the most important tools in the fight against breast cancer. It allows cancer to be detected at an early stage, when it is still small and does not produce symptoms. Early detection of cancer significantly increases the chances of a cure and allows for less invasive treatments.
When should mammography be performed?
Recommendations for the frequency of mammograms vary depending on age and risk factors.
- Women aged 40-49: should consider having a mammogram every 1-2 years, after consulting with their doctor.
- Women aged 50-69: should have a mammogram every 2 years.
- Women over 70: should continue to have mammograms every 2 years or as recommended by their doctor.
More frequent mammograms (e.g., every year) may be recommended for women at high risk for breast cancer. These include women with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, women with a family history of breast cancer, and women who have received radiation therapy to the chest area.
How to prepare for mammography?
- Choose the right time: it’s best to get a mammogram in the first week after menstruation, when the breasts are less tender.
- Avoid the use of deodorants, perfumes and talc: they can interfere with mammogram images.
- Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing: you will need to undress from the waist up.
- Inform medical personnel about all medications you are taking, past illnesses and breast surgeries.
- If you have breast implants, tell the technician performing the test.
How does the mammography test proceed?
The test is performed in an X-ray laboratory. During the examination, the breast is placed between two plates of the mammography machine and gently compressed. The compression is necessary to obtain a clear image. The entire procedure usually takes a few minutes.
Is mammography painful?
Breast pressure during the examination may be uncomfortable, but is usually not painful. If you feel pain, tell the technician performing the examination.
Is mammography safe?
Mammography uses a low dose of X-rays. The risks of radiation are very low and far outweigh the benefits of early detection of breast cancer.
What happens after the study?
Mammography images are analyzed by a radiologist. You will usually receive the result of the examination within a few days. If abnormalities are found on the images, your doctor may order additional tests, such as a breast ultrasound, biopsy or MRI.
Limitations of mammography
Mammography is a very effective test, but it has its limitations. Sometimes the test may fail to detect cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue. In some cases, mammography can give a false-positive result, meaning that a lesion suspected of being cancerous will turn out to be benign.
Alternative methods of breast examination
In addition to mammography, there are other methods of breast examination, such as:
- Breast ultrasound: an examination using ultrasound waves, particularly useful in women with dense breast tissue.
- Breast MRI: a highly sensitive test, used mainly in women at high risk of breast cancer.
- Breast biopsy: the removal of a piece of breast tissue for microscopic examination, enabling a definitive diagnosis of cancer.
Summary
Mammography is one of the most important preventive tests in the fight against breast cancer. Early detection of the disease significantly increases the chances of a cure. Be sure to get regular mammograms as recommended by your doctor.
