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Mammography |
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Approximately one woman every three minutes was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. Breast cancer is one of the leading causes
of cancer death in women. If breast cancer is detected early, it can be cured. To give yourself this edge in
fighting breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends:
- Begin monthly breast self-examination at age 20 and have a breast examination by your physician at least once every three years.
- At age 40 you should have a baseline mammogram and begin annual physician breast examinations.
- From the age of 40-50 have a mammogram every year or two (discuss with your physician how often)
- Over the age of 50 have mammograms annually along with your physician breast examination.
If you think of a mammogram as taking an x-ray of the breasts you will have a good understanding of the study. Mammography is safe, painless, and quick.
A very small amount of radiation is needed for the study which is well whithin the safe range. During the positioning of the breast for the
X-ray, some women may feel a small amount of discomfort, but it only lasts for a few seconds. Doing monthly breast
self examinations is very important, but mammography is also very important since it can detect extremely small breast cancers -
ones too small for you to feel.
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The Two Types of Breast Mammograms |
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There are two types of mammograms. A screening mammogram is used for women with no symptoms of breast
cancer. All major health organizations agree
that screening mammography every one to two years can reduce breast cancer death rates by about one-third for women over
the age of 50. Eighty percent of breast cancer cases are found in women over 50 years of age. If you are 50 or older,
be sure to have a mammogram every one to two years and have your
physician exam your breasts yearly. If you are between 40 and 49, the decision on how often to have a mammogram should
be made after talking to your physician.
A diagnostic mammogram is used for women with symptoms of breast cancer such as a lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or any changes in breast shape
or size. If you have any concerns that you have signs or symptoms of breast cancer or you detect a breast lump, see her doctor immediately. The doctor may then order a diagnostic mammogram.
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Mammography Quality Standards |
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The quality of the mammography study is extremely important.
The Mammography Quality Standards Act of 1994 requires facilties to be accredited by the Food and Drug Administration in order to ensure quality control
standards are met. Call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER to find an accredited facility in your area. Questions to ask a mammography facility are available.
Last Modified: 7/27/97,
Copyright © 1994, 1995 University of Texas - Houston Medical School, DPALM MEDIC
All rights reserved.
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