Reliable clinical sources confirm the effectiveness of mammography in detecting early breast cancer, which affects the largest group of women in Poland among all cancers. However, men can also get it.
According to statistics, the mortality rate among women undergoing screening has decreased by 2/5. Mammography increases the chances of curing patients without amputation of the breast.
What exactly is a mammogram?
Mammography is a radiological examination of the breast using soft X-rays. Thanks to it, images are created for each nipple in the oblique and axial projection. The soft tissues captured in the image allow to show possible changes in the structure of the nipples and nodules, the primary focus of which does not exceed 1 cm, as well as microcalcifications. Due to the low doses of radiation, it is a safe examination, so it can be repeated often without fear. It would pose a threat only to the dividing cells of the fetus due to the ionizing nature of the rays.
Who is mammography for?
It is recommended that women over the age of 35 report for routine examinations every two years, and after the age of 50, every year. Pregnancy is a contraindication to mammography. Indications for mammography:
- breast pain
- nipple discharge,
- palpable nodules and thickening during self-examination,
- difference in the shape of both breasts,
- follow-up examinations after any type of previous breast tumor treatment,
- control tests before introducing hormone replacement therapy,
- locating changes before breast surgery.
Risk factors
There are also factors that increase your risk of developing this type of cancer:
- cases of breast cancer among family members, where the degree of risk is calculated according to the number of cases in the family and the degree of kinship,
- mutations in BRCA 1 and/or BRCA 2 genes,
- age between 50 and 69,
- menopause that started after the age of 55,
- first menstruation, which occurred before the age of 12,
- childlessness,
- childbirth after the age of 35.
Before mammography
If we menstruate, let’s agree on a date for the 5-10th day of the cycle. Although this is not a necessary condition for the examination, it is worth taking care of it, as it allows you to obtain the most reliable image of the breast. Post-menopausal women have full freedom regarding the day of mammography. On the day of the examination, we cannot use cosmetics, such as deodorants with talc, creams or lotion. Before the examination, put on clothes that can be easily removed down to the waist, so two-piece clothing is recommended.