Cancer screenings are tests that look for cancer before a person has any symptoms. When abnormal tissue or cancer is found early, it may be easier to treat. By the time symptoms appear, cancer may have begun to spread, making effective treatment more difficult. Screening tests are a fundamental component of preventive health, helping to identify potential health issues at their most manageable stages. Here is information on mammogram cancer screenings:
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray picture of the breast, and medical professionals use mammograms to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are a key preventive screening tool because they often find breast cancers when they are too small to be felt during a physical exam. This early detection is key to starting treatment as soon as possible.
There are two main types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. A screening mammogram is used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease, and it usually involves two or more X-ray images of each breast. A diagnostic mammogram is used to investigate suspicious breast changes, such as a new lump, pain, or nipple discharge, so it may involve more X-rays from different angles.
What Is a Mammogram Like?
The mammogram process is straightforward and typically takes about 20 minutes, depending on the type of exam. A technologist will position your breast on a special platform, and a clear plastic plate will press down to compress the breast tissue. This compression is necessary for a clear image, as it spreads out the tissue and prevents motion that could blur the X-ray.
While some individuals may experience brief discomfort during the compression, it is a key part of obtaining a high-quality image. The technologist will take images from different angles for a comprehensive assessment. Some common procedural steps may include:
- Getting Undressed: You will be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a wrap to wear.
- Placing Your Breast: A technologist will position one of your breasts on the imaging plate of the mammogram machine.
- Lowering the Plate: A clear plastic plate will be lowered to compress the breast for a few seconds.
- Taking Images: An X-ray image is taken while the breast is compressed.
- Repeating for Other Breast: The process is repeated for the other breast and for different views as needed.
How Do They Detect Breast Cancer?
Mammograms detect breast cancer by revealing changes in breast tissue that may not be apparent by touch. The X-ray images can show abnormalities such as calcifications, which are tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue. While most calcifications are benign, certain patterns may be an early sign of cancer. Radiologists, who are doctors trained to interpret these images, examine X-rays for calcifications and areas of dense tissue. They look for any abnormal developments with the size, shape, or appearance of the breast tissue.
Learn More About Cancer Screenings
Preventive health screenings are a proactive step you can take for your overall health. Different types of cancer have different screening tests, and guidelines can vary based on age, gender, and risk factors. Speak with your provider to learn which screenings are appropriate for you.
