5 Things You Should Know: Mammography

While mammography is a word we often hear, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we can't help but notice that there are still many misconceptions about this breast cancer screening technique. Our goal during the month of October is to educate as many women as possible on the topic of breast cancer. Our hope is that the more women who truly understand this disease and what it means to take preventative action, the more women will be able to share their knowledge with others in their community - giving hope to those who may be unaware, but who may be able to detect this disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Today, we want to address some of those misconceptions you may have about mammography, by providing a resource of 5 things you should know about the procedure. Take these to heart, and take them to your community as well. The more women are aware of this procedure, the more women's lives we may be able to save in the process...

1. Mammography is a simple X-Ray procedure
    - No dyes have to be injected or swallowed, the x-ray simply takes a picture of the breast, and shows any incosistencies in the breast tissue.
   
    - While some state X-Ray radiation as a health risk, modern mammography techniques use a minimal dosage of X-Rays - far less than you would encounter naturally from the environment over the course of a year - and the risks of this radiation are far outweighed by the benefits of the screening.
2. About 1 out of  9 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime
    - Risk increases with age, thus it is vital to have regular (yearly) mammograms above age 40.
   
    - Other risk factors, such as having a family history of breast cancer, could mean starting regular mammography at an earlier age. Find out more about specific risk factors here: http://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/RecommendationsforWomenwithHigherRisk.html
3. Mammography is vital, regardless of the size of your breasts, or the existence of implants
    - It is a common misconception that breast size, or even breast implants can increase or diminish the importance of regular mammography screening, or that it changes your risk factor - this is not so.
   
    - It is imperative that regular screenings no matter what size your breasts are. Even women who have had breast cancer surgery may also need to examine the remaining breast tissue for signs of the disease.
4. A positive test result does not necessarily mean cancer
    - While mammography has been shown to be nearly 80% effective in detecting breast cancer, around 4 out of every 5 lumps found in the breast are not cancer, but are benign.
   
    - Further testing, such as MRI testing, needle aspiration, or a biopsy may be required to confirm or deny any suspicions of cancer.
5. Mammography is most effective in conjunction with other screening procedures
    - Even if mammography is a regular part of your routine healthcare, this should not replace monthly breast self-exams, clinical exams, and regular checkups with your doctor.
   
    - Always consult your physician if you detect a lump, or need to know more about your screening options.

Clearly, mammography is an effective technique for screening for breast cancer, and the benefits far outweigh any minor risks. If you've had misconceptions about mammography, we hope you'll come to this very conclusion for yourself.

Dr. Benson is a board certified physician who specializes in all areas of women's health, cares deeply for the well-being of his patients. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Benson, or simply to find out more about his services, call his office today: 979-776-1660.

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