Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to screen for and detect breast cancer. It's one of the most important tools for early detection of breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women. Mammograms can find breast cancer before it can be felt and when it's most treatable.

There are two types of mammograms: screening mammograms (routine check for women with no symptoms) and diagnostic mammograms (to investigate a specific concern). Regular mammograms are recommended for women starting at certain ages, depending on guidelines and individual risk factors.

Mammograms are used to:

Screening:

• Detect breast cancer early
• Before symptoms appear
• Routine check for women at average risk
• Can find cancer when it's small and treatable

Diagnosis:

• Investigate breast lumps
• Evaluate breast changes
• Follow up on abnormal findings
• Guide biopsies

Benefits:

• Early detection saves lives
• Can find cancer before it spreads
• Less aggressive treatment may be needed
• Peace of mind

Before Your Appointment:

• Schedule when breasts are least tender (usually week after period)
• Don't wear deodorant, antiperspirant, or powder (can show on X-ray)
• Wear two-piece outfit (easier to change)
• Bring previous mammogram images if done elsewhere
• Inform staff if you have breast implants

What to Bring:

• Insurance information
• List of medications
• Previous mammogram results (if available)
• Questions you have

During the Mammogram:

1. You'll undress from waist up: Given a gown
2. Positioning: Stand in front of X-ray machine
3. Breast positioning:
   • Breast placed on platform
   • Compressed with paddle
   • Compression may be uncomfortable but necessary
4. X-ray taken: From different angles
5. Process repeated: For other breast
6. Duration: Usually 10-15 minutes total

The Compression:

• Necessary for clear images
• May be uncomfortable or briefly painful
• Only lasts seconds
• Tell technologist if too painful
• Helps detect small abnormalities

After the Mammogram:

• You can dress and leave
• Resume normal activities immediately
• Results usually available in 1-2 weeks
• You'll be notified of results

Normal Results:

• No signs of cancer
• No abnormalities found
• Continue regular screening
• Usually receive letter in mail

Abnormal Findings:

• Doesn't always mean cancer
• May need additional tests
• Follow-up may include:
  • Additional mammogram views
  • Ultrasound
  • MRI
  • Biopsy
• Most abnormal findings are not cancer

BI-RADS Categories (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System):

• 0: Incomplete, need additional imaging
• 1: Negative (normal)
• 2: Benign (non-cancerous)
• 3: Probably benign (follow-up recommended)
• 4: Suspicious (biopsy recommended)
• 5: Highly suspicious (biopsy strongly recommended)
• 6: Known cancer

Your doctor will explain what your results mean and any next steps needed.

Mammograms are very safe:

• Low radiation dose
• Benefits outweigh risks
• Modern equipment uses minimal radiation
• Regular screening recommended despite small risk

Radiation Exposure:

• Very low dose
• Similar to background radiation over few months
• Much lower than other X-rays
• Benefits of early detection far outweigh risks

• Questions about results
• Need for follow-up testing
• Concerns about findings
• Questions about screening schedule
• Breast changes or concerns

• Continue regular screening
• Follow recommended schedule
• Perform breast self-exams
• Report any changes
• Regular check-ups

General Recommendations (may vary):

• Age 40-49: Discuss with doctor
• Age 50-74: Every 1-2 years
• Age 75+: Discuss with doctor
• High risk: May start earlier, more frequent

Individual Factors:

• Family history
• Genetic factors
• Personal history
• Other risk factors
• Discuss with doctor

Mammograms have limitations:

• May miss some cancers (false negative)
• May find things that aren't cancer (false positive)
• May need additional tests
• Not perfect, but best screening tool available
• Should be combined with clinical exams

Additional Screening (for high risk):

• MRI may be recommended
• More frequent screening
• Starting at younger age
• Discuss with doctor

The compression can be uncomfortable or briefly painful, but it only lasts seconds. The discomfort is usually mild and brief. Tell the technologist if it's too painful.

It depends on your age and risk factors. Generally, every 1-2 years starting at age 50, or earlier if at high risk. Discuss with your doctor what's right for you.

Yes. The radiation dose is very low, and the benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh the small risks. Modern equipment uses minimal radiation.

Most abnormal findings are not cancer. You'll likely need additional tests (more mammogram views, ultrasound, or biopsy) to determine what it is. Your doctor will guide you through next steps.

Yes. Inform the staff that you have implants. Special techniques may be used to ensure the breast tissue is properly imaged around the implants.