What is leukemia?
What is metabolism? How can you boost your metabolism?
What is a mammogram (mammography)? How is it done?
A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast and
involves the use of low-dose radiation. It plays a critical role in diagnosing
breast cancer as it helps detect lumps and abnormalities in breast tissue. It
should be repeated at regular intervals so changes in breast tissue can be
identified. Every healthy women should get a mammogram for cancer screening.
Screening can be performed more frequently, especially in high-risk groups.
What
is a mammogram (mammography)? How is does it work?
“What is a mammogram?” is a frequently asked question. A mammogram is an imaging method that
enables early diagnosis and screening of breast cancer. It uses a low-dose
x-ray system to examine breast tissue. Mammograms are done by specialists and
are recommended for all women over age of 40. As mammograms are an important
tool that can help find breast cancer in its early stages, they are
extremely valuable for screening. Mammograms are usually done once a
year, or more often if there is increased risk. If you have a family history of
breast cancer, you will probably be recommended to get a mammogram earlier.
X-ray examination of breast tissue may make you feel a little uncomfortable,
but it does not hurt. Compressing the breast allows for more accurate imaging
of breast tissue.
At
what age should women start getting mammograms? What is the age range for
mammogram screening?
All women over the age of 40 should get mammogram screening. The
worldwide recommended frequency is once a year. This frequency may vary
depending on the person's family history and risk factors. It is important that
women with genetic mutations, a family history of breast cancer or with a
history of health risks do not skip mammogram screening.
Per National Cancer Screening
Standards, women aged 40-69 should undergo mammogram
screening even if they have no complaints so that breast cancer can be
detected as early as possible. Screening is done every 2 years. The standard
procedure during screening is to image each breast in two positions, one
mediolateral oblique (MLO) and the other craniocaudal (CC) (4). Mammograms are
extremely valuable as they enable early diagnosis and facilitate effective
treatment. Therefore, it is important for women to see a doctor at regular
intervals to discuss and decide on a screening plan according to their health
status.
What
are the benefits of mammograms?
Mammograms are known for their
ability to detect even the smallest tumors at an early stage through a detailed
x-ray examination of breast tissue. Early detection allows breast cancer to be
treated more effectively and increases the chances of survival. It can also
reduce treatment costs and minimize the need for surgical intervention.
Mammogram
screening is completely safe as it uses only low-dose radiation. The results
are uploaded and stored on digital portals.
Mammograms
should be performed routinely so that any change in breast tissue can be
assessed over the years. Mammogram screening is effective for early detection
and treatment of breast cancer and can therefore improve quality of life.
FAQs
Mammogram screening has
become the most popular technology to diagnose breast diseases,
raising questions in people’s minds about the benefits and effects of
mammography. Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
The best time to have a mammogram is usually around the
middle of your menstrual cycle. Breasts can be tender the week before and in
the first days of menstruation. Therefore, having a mammogram in the middle of
your menstrual cycle, around day 10 after the end of your menstruation, can
provide a more comfortable experience.
You can have a mammogram in a
hospital or radiology center. It is also performed by healthcare professionals
in private medical centers. They all have specialized mammography equipment to
provide diagnostic care in this particular field.
What
happens during a mammogram?
The aim of a mammogram
is to detect potential tumors by examining breast tissue in detail. Mammograms
are performed according to a specific procedure and usually include the
following steps:
● Preparation: As you prepare for
your mammogram, remember not to wear any creams or lotions on your breast area,
as these products can interfere with x-ray results. In addition, important
information such as pregnancy status or breast implants will be assessed to
minimize radiation exposure.
● Positioning: Mammogram units have
a bottom plate and a compression paddle designed to provide good quality
imaging of breast tissues. Each breast is placed between the bottom plate and
compression paddle separately and firmly compressed with gentle pressure. Firm
compression of the breast is essential for good quality mammography.
● Imaging: Once the breast is
compressed, the radiologist will take x-ray images from various angles. The
patient must remain still for a few seconds in each position.
● Results: After imaging is
completed, the radiologist will examine the images to determine whether there
are any signs of abnormality. If necessary, you may be referred for additional
testing or examinations.
You may feel a slight discomfort
during the mammogram, but the process is usually quick. Mammograms can be an
effective screening tool for early detection of breast cancer and, when
performed regularly, provide important information to health professionals.
What
is a digital mammogram? What are the benefits of digital mammograms?
Digital mammography is a screening method that uses digital sensors to image
breast tissue. This technology is also used for the early detection of breast
cancer but faster, more sensitive and uses lower doses of radiation than
traditional x-ray mammography. Digital mammography has some significant
advantages over traditional x-ray mammograms. First, digital mammography offers
a faster and more efficient screening process. As the images are acquired
digitally, they can be examined and stored instantly. This allows doctors to
diagnose patients and start treatment faster.
Another
advantage of digital mammography is the ability to obtain clearer images. This
way, even subtle changes in breast tissue can be better identified, thus
facilitating early diagnosis.
Do
mammograms hurt?
There may be a slight feeling of
discomfort during mammogram, but it is usually not painful. There may be a
slight feeling of pressure and short-term discomfort due to compression of
breast tissue. Mammograms are completed fairly quickly and the pressure is
bearable as it only takes a few seconds.
How
long does a mammogram take?
Mammography is a very simple and
short procedure. The patient is first prepared and then x-rayed. The whole
process takes about 15 minutes in total. It may take a little longer if breast
tissue is dense and breast size is large. During the procedure, the breast is
compressed using a metal paddle and x-rayed from different angles. Firm
compression of the breast is essential for good quality mammography and takes
as little as a few seconds.
Who
should get mammograms more often?
Breast cancer is a complex disease resulting from the interaction
of several factors. Understanding breast cancer risk factors is important to
take preventive measures and ensure early detection. Risk factors can vary from
person to person and can influence the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
●
Gender and Age: Women are at higher risk of breast cancer and this
risk increases with advanced age. The risk is especially higher in women over
the age of 50.
● Family History and Genetic
Factors: People with a family history of breast cancer are at increased risk.
Certain genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can also increase the risk.
● Personal History and Previous
Breast Cancer: Individuals who have had breast cancer before are at risk.
● Radiation Exposure: Radiation
therapy to the breasts, especially at a young age, can increase the risk of
breast cancer.
● Hormonal Factors: Hormonal factors
such as hormone therapies, birth control pills and postmenopausal hormone
replacement therapy can also affect the risk of breast cancer.
● Factors related to the
reproductive system: Factors such as giving birth to a first child after the
age of 30, nulliparity and late menopause may also increase the risk.
● Lifestyle and Environmental
Factors: Lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diet, obesity, physical inactivity
and alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of breast cancer.
Being aware of these factors can help take preventive measures,
including regular health check-ups and breast cancer screenings.
A mammogram is a screening procedure that is critical for early
breast cancer detection. It is used to examine breast tissue and should be
performed at regular intervals. It is a fairly easy and painless procedure and
it is important not to skip screening. To learn more about the procedure and
ask any questions you may have, you can consult a healthcare professional.
References
