Why a Mammogram Is the Best Way to Detect If a Woman Has Breast Cancer

Breast cancer impacts hundreds of thousands of women annually. Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening. However, early detection nearly always leads to better outcomes.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and an ideal time to review why a mammogram is the best wat to detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage.

There are several screening options available, such as MRIs and ultrasounds, but mammograms remain the go-to method for detecting breast cancer.

The medical team at South Plains Rural Health Services, which has convenient locations in Levelland, Lamesa, and Big Spring, Texas, explains why. 

How does a mammogram work? 

A mammogram is an X-ray that examines breast tissue. Your breast is placed on a plate and compressed by a paddle while an X-ray captures images. A radiologist then reviews and interprets the results. What other types of mammograms exist?

X-ray mammograms are the most common option. But there are other effective technologies.

Digital mammography uses the same X-ray technology as standard mammograms, but they are stored digitally instead of storing images on film. A key benefit of digital mammography is the reduced radiation exposure.

Digital mammograms may be more effective than traditional ones, particularly for women under 50, those with dense breast tissue, or women who haven't gone through menopause.

Tomosynthesis, or 3-D mammography, is another method that uses X-rays to capture thin sections of the breast with less radiation than 2-D mammography. Many patients still receive both 2-D and 3-D mammograms for optimal results.

What are the limitations of mammography? 

Mammograms are a valuable tool for early detection, but they have limitations. False positives can occur, especially in women with dense breast tissue, often requiring a follow-up biopsy.

Dense breast tissue can also make it harder to get accurate results from a mammogram, which may lead to the need for an MRI or ultrasound.

Sometimes, your doctor may suggest molecular breast imaging (MBI), which can help detect cancer cells more clearly.

Who should get a mammogram?

The providers at South Plains Rural Health, along with the CDC, recommend that women aged 40 to 74 at average risk for breast cancer get a yearly mammogram. After age 55, if previous results are clear, screening can be done every other year.

Women with a family history of cancer may be at higher risk and should consider starting mammograms earlier. Ask your doctor if you're in a high-risk group to determine if you need screening sooner.

Women with breast implants can and should still get mammograms. However, additional images may be needed to view all of the natural breast tissue.

A mammogram is one of the best steps you can take for your health. Early detection can be lifesaving.

For more information about preventing breast cancer and for all of your OB/GYN needs, call the South Plains Rural Health office closest to you to request an appointment or use the online scheduling tool.