The truth about
mammograms: Myths and Facts
Detecting cancers early before they spread and beginning
treatment as soon as possible, greatly increases the chance for a cure. But no test is perfect; a mammogram can
detect many but not all cases of breast cancer.
Early detection of breast cancer is accomplished through annual
mammography, annual clinical breast exams and monthly self breast exams.
A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast. During a mammogram, your breast is placed between
two plastic plates and compressed as the x-ray is taken. You may feel discomfort as the plates press
on the breast, but it will last only a few seconds. If you experience pain tell the mammography
technician. If you have menstrual
periods, the best time to get a mammogram is at the end of your menstrual
period. This is when your breasts are
less tender. Some women have less breast
tenderness if they avoid having any caffeine for a couple of days prior to the
test. After the x-ray pictures are
taken, they are sent to a radiologist, who studies them and sends a report to
your health care provider. The
mammography facility will usually send you a letter regarding your mammogram
results and any recommendation from the radiologist. Be sure you receive the results of your
mammogram either from the facility or from your health care provider shortly
after the test and follow any recommendations.
If the doctor detects any
abnormality or change in the mammogram, you may have to undergo additional
testing.
There are two 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.
Screening mammograms usually involve two x-ray pictures or images of
each breast. The x-ray images make it
possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt.
Screening mammograms can also find microcalcifications (tiny deposits of
calcium) that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer. Diagnostic mammograms are used to check for
breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of the disease has been
found. A diagnostic mammogram can also
be used to evaluate changes found during a screen
ing mammogram or to view
breast tissue when it is difficult to obtain a screening mammogram because of
special circumstances, such as the presence of breast implants.
Women 40 years and older should have a screening mammogram
every year. If you are younger than 40
years and have a family history of breast cancer or other concerns, discuss
with your doctor when to begin screening.
Women with breast implants should continue to have mammograms. Be sure to let the mammography facility know
about breast implants when scheduling a mammogram.
See your health care provider if you have a lump that was
not seen on a mammogram or notice any other breast changes.
Annually, the Tri-Cities Cancer Center hosts no-cost breast and
cervical screenings with our partner hospitals and various providers in our
region. We are able to offer screening events like this free of charge thanks
to generous donations made to our Foundation. Uninsured and under-insured women
are encouraged to take advantage of these free cancer screenings. Visit our
website or call us to learn more: www.tccancer.org
or (509) 737-3420. Did you know your Tri-Cities Cancer Center provides a
comprehensive no-cost mammogram program, offered year-round, serving women in
our community? If you are in need of a
mammogram and are unable to afford one, please ask your doctor to provide you a
referral for our no-cost mammogram program.
~ Rebecca Bowie, RN
Tri-Cities Cancer Center
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