Mammograms are considered the gold standard for breast cancer screening. However, concerns about radiation exposure, discomfort, and false-positive results may leave you wondering whether it’s truly the safest option.
At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, our team recommends that most women start routine screening mammograms at age 40. While other breast cancer screening tools are available, mammograms remain our first-line approach.
Here, we explain how mammograms work, their safety and limitations, and how we determine the best screening tool(s) for you.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that uses low-dose radiation to create detailed images of the breast tissue. These images help us find abnormal changes that may indicate early breast cancer. There are two main types of mammograms:
Screening mammogram
A screening mammogram is a routine X-ray test used to detect early signs of breast cancer in women with no symptoms. Typically, the test takes two or three X-ray images of each breast and remains the most effective screening tool for early detection.
Diagnostic mammogram
A diagnostic mammogram provides more detailed images from additional angles. We order this test if your screening mammogram shows abnormalities or if you have any concerning symptoms.
During both mammogram tests, your breast tissue is compressed between two plates. While this may cause some discomfort, compression helps spread the tissue to produce clear and more accurate images.
Risks and limitations of mammograms
Radiation exposure is one of the most common concerns surrounding mammograms. However, experts agree that the radiation dose is very low, and the benefits of finding breast cancer early far outweigh the risks. Repeated exposure to the small doses of radiation doesn't increase risk of breast cancer or cause tumors to grow.
A more notable limitation of mammograms is the possibility of false-positives and false-negatives. False-positives are common and can lead to anxiety and the need for additional testing that ultimately turns out to be negative.
Though less common, false-negative results occur when abnormal tissue isn’t found, delaying breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Other breast cancer detection tools
While mammograms are sensitive, accessible, and effective at identifying abnormal breast tissue, we may use additional imaging tests to confirm results or further assess women with various risk factors. Other detection tools include:
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate images and is especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue. A breast cancer ultrasound is often performed as a follow-up to a mammogram to help differentiate between solid and fluid filled masses.
However, ultrasound can’t determine whether a mass is cancerous and isn’t recommended as a first-line screening tool.
MRI
MRIs provide highly detailed images of breast tissue and can find abnormalities that a mammogram may miss. We only recommend MRI testing in women at high risk of breast cancer. This test is pricey and often leads to false-positives.
Clinical breast exam (CBE)
CBE is a hands-on evaluation of the breast performed during your annual well-woman exam. This test can help detect lumps and visible changes, but isn’t as effective as imaging for early cancer detection.
Choosing the right screening tool
Regardless of risk level, mammograms are the foundation of breast cancer screening. If results are unclear or if your risk factors warrant additional testing, we may recommend ultrasound or MRI imaging.
You don’t have to make these decisions on your own. We can review your risk factors, answer your questions, and help you make an informed decision.
If you have concerns about breast cancer or if you want to know more about mammograms and other screenings, contact Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online today.
