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The goal of breast cancer screening is to find cancer at the earliest possible stage, before it causes symptoms or pain and when it is easier to treat.

 

Studies reveal that over 16% of  Indian women of the age group 40-60 are at risk of being diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Further, delayed detection can result in 1 of every 22 women developing breast cancer in India.

 

The best way to detect breast cancer early is to go for regular breast screening exams.

 

At Prime Diagnostic Centre, we consistently emphasise the importance of preventive screening and check-ups to ensure that your breasts are healthy. 

 

Mammography is a specialized medical imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breasts. These images, called mammograms, are used primarily to detect and diagnose breast diseases, especially breast cancer. Mammography can reveal changes in the breast tissue up to two years before they can be felt by physical examination.

 

Types of Mammography

1. Screening Mammography:

   • Performed on women without any symptoms.

   • Aimed at detecting breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.

   • Usually recommended annually or biennially for women over a certain age (often starting at 40 or 50, depending on guidelines).

2. Diagnostic Mammography:

   • Conducted when there are symptoms such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast size/shape.

   • Also used to follow up on abnormalities found in a screening mammogram.

   • Provides more detailed images than screening mammography.

 

How Mammography Works

1. Compression: The breast is placed on a flat support plate and compressed with a paddle. This compression spreads out the breast tissue, allowing for clearer images and reducing the required X-ray dose.

2. X-Ray Imaging: Low-dose X-rays are passed through the breast to create images. These images are captured on film or, more commonly now, on digital detectors.

3. Image Analysis: Radiologists examine the mammograms for any signs of abnormalities, such as masses, calcifications, or asymmetries.

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Benefits of Mammography

• Early Detection: Detects breast cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

• Improved Survival Rates: Early detection through mammography can significantly reduce mortality from breast cancer.

• Detailed Imaging: Provides detailed images of breast tissue, helping in the detection of small tumors that may not be palpable.

 

Limitations and Risks

• False Positives/Negatives: Mammograms can sometimes indicate an abnormality that is not cancer (false positive) or miss a cancer (false negative).

• Radiation Exposure: Involves exposure to low doses of radiation, but the benefits of early cancer detection generally outweigh the risks.

• Discomfort: The compression of the breast can cause temporary discomfort or pain for some women.

 

Preparation for a Mammogram

• Scheduling: Ideally scheduled one week after the menstrual period when breasts are less likely to be tender.

• Avoiding Certain Products: Patients are advised not to use deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, or perfumes on the day of the exam, as these can appear on the mammogram and interfere with image interpretation.

• Medical History: Informing the radiologist of any symptoms, prior surgeries, hormone use, or family history of breast cancer.

Mammography is a crucial tool in the early detection and management of breast cancer, providing detailed images that help healthcare providers identify and treat breast conditions effectively.