Mammogram

Understanding Mammograms

A mammogram is a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose x-rays to detect cancer early – before women experience symptoms – when it is most treatable. It is a non-invasive procedure that involves the breast being compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Then, an x-ray captures black-and-white images of the breast that are displayed on a computer screen and examined for abnormalities.

Purpose and Benefits of Mammograms

The primary purpose of a mammogram is to screen for breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have in order to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt. Early detection through mammograms can lead to a greater range of treatment options, including less-extensive surgery and the use of chemotherapy with fewer serious side effects, or even the option of forgoing chemotherapy.

Conditions Detected by Mammograms

Mammograms are primarily used to detect breast cancer. They can reveal both non-invasive and invasive cancers. Non-invasive cancers are confined to the ducts or lobules and have not spread to surrounding tissues, while invasive cancers have spread to surrounding breast tissues. Mammograms can also detect calcifications, cysts, fibroadenomas, and other benign (non-cancerous) conditions.

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Scan Procedure

During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Then, an x-ray machine takes black-and-white images of your breasts which are displayed on a computer screen and examined for signs of cancer.

Preparation for the Scan

Before a mammogram, it's recommended to avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes under your arms or on your breasts. Metallic particles in these products could be visible on your mammogram and cause confusion.

What to Expect on the Day

On the day of the mammogram, you'll undress from the waist up and stand in front of an x-ray machine. Your breasts will be placed, one at a time, between two plates that will slowly compress them for the x-ray. Some women find this uncomfortable or even somewhat painful.

After the Scan

After the scan, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately. The images will be reviewed by a radiologist, and you'll receive the results within a few days.

Alternative Imaging Options

Other imaging options include breast ultrasound, breast MRI, or a biopsy. The choice of method depends on your symptoms, age, and risk factors.

Additional Resources

For more information on mammograms, visit the NHS website or the Breast Cancer Now website.

References

1. "Breast Cancer Screening Mammography & Diagnosis." UChicago Medicine. https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/cancer/types-treatments/breast-cancer/screening-diagnosis
2. "Mammogram: Screening & Diagnostic." Advocate Health Care. https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/screenings/mammogram/
3. "Breast Examination and Mammogram." City of Chicago. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/healthymothers_and_babies/svcs/get_a_breast_examandmammogram.html
4. "IL Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP)." Illinois Department of Public Health. https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/life-stages-populations/womens-health-services/ibccp.html
5. "Service: Breast Cancer Screen." Illinois.gov. https://www.illinois.gov/services/service.breast-cancer-screen.html

• UChicago Medicine. https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/cancer/types-treatments/breast-cancer/screening-diagnosis
• Advocate Health Care. https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/screenings/mammogram/
• City of Chicago. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/healthymothers_and_babies/svcs/get_a_breast_examandmammogram.html
• Illinois Department of Public Health. https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/life-stages-populations/womens-health-services/ibccp.html
• Illinois.gov. https://www.illinois.gov/services/service.breast-cancer-screen.html