All About Mammograms – What You Need to Know
There has been a lot of controversy surrounding mammograms in recent years, but the American Medical Association, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Radiology, the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network have all issued guidelines saying that all women should be eligible for screening mammograms starting at age 40.
With that said, what do you need to know about this procedure?
What exactly is a mammogram?
It’s a safe, low-dose radiographic procedure that images the internal tissues of your breasts. There are two types, screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. Screening mammograms are the type you get every year to check for breast cancer, even if you have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Diagnostic mammograms are used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign of the disease has been found.
Do mammograms hurt?
Well, they’re not comfortable. You’ll have to strike some awkward poses in front of a machine while each breast gets compressed between a platform and a paddle. But—the pain is not constant. The standard mammography takes 15-30 minutes, and your breast is only compressed for a few seconds during each pose. For the most part, having a mammogram is more uncomfortable and embarrassing than painful. Don’t let a few seconds of discomfort scare you off!
Why is it important for women to get mammograms?
According to the National Cancer Institute, annual mammograms can detect cancer early — when it is most treatable. They can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. Mammograms can also prevent the need for extensive treatment for advanced cancers and improve chances of breast conservation.
When should I start getting mammograms?
In the aftermath of the controversy mentioned above, women have received conflicting messages about how old they should be when they have their first mammogram and how often they should get one. The first thing you should know is that women who are high risk for breast cancer, due to family history, a genetic predisposition such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation or radiation exposure early in life may be told to start earlier, around the age of 35. Discuss your risk factors with your doctor.
Otherwise, The American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, the American College of Radiology, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the American Medical Association all support starting at age 40 and getting a mammogram every 1 to 2 Years.
The US Preventive Services Task Force, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Physicians, the National Breast Cancer Coalition, the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation, and the World Health Organization say you should start at age 50 and get a mammogram every 2 years.
At Chouchani, Sayegh and Bagnarello M.D., we discuss risk factors and proactive procedures with all of our patients. Want to know more? Call us anytime.
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