MAMMOGRAPHY

What is mammography?

Mammography is a type of X-ray specifically used to examine the breast area. A mammogram may reveal the presence of lumps and other growths that may be cancerous, in additions to less serious changes in the breast and surrounding area.

Why is mammography important?

It can take as long as eight years for a malignancy in the breast to grow large enough to be seen or felt as a lump, and there is usually no pain or discomfort to signal a problem. A mammogram can reveal the presence of cancer in the breast before it can be detected by even the most skilled examiner. When breast cancer is found and treated early, the chance for long-term survival or "cure" is highest. Cancer of the breast itself is not necessarily fatal. but death can result if the cancer spreads to other parts of the body.

How is a mammogram performed?

The procedure is simple and takes less than 30 minutes. The technician takes X-ray pictures of the top and side of the breasts, which are compressed between the X-ray plates of the mammography machine. No dyes need to be injected or swallowed.

Is mammography painful?

To produce the most accurate images possible, the technician must compress each breast between the X-ray plates. The compression causes little or no discomfort in most women and does not damage breast tissue in any way. Since breasts are generally more sensitive before a menstrual cycle begins, you may want to schedule your mammography appointment during the week following the end of your period.

Do I need a mammogram regularly?

The American Cancer Society, the American College of Radiology and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women with a normal risk of developing breast cancer undergo mammography every l or 2 years from age 40 through 49, then annually, beginning at age 50. While increasing age is the most significant risk factor for most women, there are other factors that can put a woman at higher risk of developing breast cancer. If advised by a physician, these women my undergo mammograms more often and at an earlier age than recommended for the general population. The high risk factors include:

• Family history of breast cancer (mother, sister, or aunt)
• Having had breast cancer before
• First live birth after age 30, or no full-term pregnancy
• Early onset of menstruation
• Late onset of menopause
• Female descendants of European Jews
• High intake of dietary fats (possible risk factor)
• High breast density (possible risk factor determined by mammography)

Is breast self-examination necessary with mammography?

Absolutely! Mammography does not replace the need for you to examine your breasts on a monthly basis. Nor does it replace the need for you to have your breasts examined by a physician annually.