Mammogram: Details

The purpose of mammograms is to find developing cancer of the breast as early as possible. Early detection usually means more effective treatment. It can save lives and can also contribute to a better quality of life by reducing the need for radical treatments.

Mammography is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to provide a picture of the internal structure of the breast. The X-rays can show abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue before they can be found by any other method, including breast self-examination.

Your doctor will likely request a mammogram in the following situations:

• If there is reason to suspect you might have breast cancer, for example, if you or your doctor discovered a lump in your breast; this kind of mammogram is called diagnostic.


• If you have a family history (mother, sister) of breast cancer, this may indicate an increased susceptibility to breast cancer. Your doctor may request a mammogram for screening purposes at certain intervals.


• If you are between the ages of 50 and 69.

TBS Editor's Note: If you feel that you need a mammogram, and you don't fit the profile, you can insist on having one. Being polite and following your doctors authority will not do your health any good if they are wrong and your instinct is right.

Many doctors recommend mammograms every two years, for screening purposes, for women between the ages of 50 and 69. Studies show that breast X-rays, taken on a regular basis, have the potential to reduce deaths from breast cancer for women in this age group by up to 40 percent.

Studies have also looked at whether regular mammograms would be beneficial for women aged 40 to 50. To date, the evidence is not conclusive. There are also concerns about the effect of increased exposure to radiation.

Source: Health Canada It's Your Health

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>> Mammography and Radiation Risks and Benefits

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