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BREAST MAMMOGRAMS
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MAMMOGRAPHY-MAMMOGRAMS
X-ray examination of the breast in the diagnosis of the cause of breast lumps; it is used as a screening test for BREAST CANCER.
A picture is obtained of the soft tissues of the breast in which any potentially cancerous areas may be seen. Mammography can detect cysts and tumors in the breast tissue while they are still too small to be readily palpated by a nurse or physician, so that it provides a means for the detection of early cancer.
Like any screening test, its cost has to be weighed against its accuracy, any potential dangers, and the value of detection. Tumors detected by mammography may be either benign or cancerous; further tests and often removal of the tumor may be needed before a firm diagnosis can be made. Breast cancer screening by mammography carries a very small risk since repeated x-ray examinations may themselves induce cancer. For that reason, current policy in the United States is for mammography to be used in screening only for women aged over 50 and for women in high-risk groups, such as those related to women who have had breast cancer. Studies have shown, however, that in these high-risk groups and in women over the age of 50 mammography can improve the detection rate and lower mortality from breast cancer.
This x-ray examination of the female breasts still remains somewhat controversial. Malignant tumors of the breast is not a rare disease; since recovery appears to be related to early diagnosis and treatment, the concept of periodic x-ray examination to detect any malignant change at the earliest possible time has great appeal. On the other hand, the test has been challenged on the basis of its accuracy (sensitivity vs. specificity), cost and the relatively high doses of radiation which could accumulate if the test were performed repeatedly.
Critics contend that regular self-examination of the breasts, coupled with periodic checks by the physician, will provide as much information as mammographic screening. Improvements in technology which lower the cost of the test and decrease the level of radiation required to perform the test may blunt some of the arguments against regular use of mammography - at least for those women who are at higher risk for the development of BREAST CANCER due to family history or other factors.
Statistically, the risk of developing breast cancer or any kind of cancer as the result of exposure to x-rays is incredibly low and the dosages currently being used is comparable to that used in common dental x-ray exams. The benefits of early detection far and away outweigh the statistical risks of x-ray exposure considering that these risks are almost mathematically irrelevant.
To the Question, are mammograms safe?
The Answer is Yes. Experts tend to agree that the amount of radiation exposure received during mammography is minimal and about the same as the amount received during a dental x-ray. It has been estimated that if 10,000 women had yearly mammograms for ten years, the radiation from mammograms would cause 1 additional breast cancer death.
Ultimately, personal vigilance and early detection remain a woman's best weapons in the war against cancer.
Breast Information
Breast Feeding Breast Cancer Breast Cancer Facts Mammograms
Breast Exams Breast Self Exams Breast Health Breast Exercises
Grobust" Bustlines Endow Plus" Bustlines Natural Contours" Bustlines
Sexual History Breasts Breast Implant Alternatives Breasts Under vs Over
Women's Links Lose Weight ORDER HERE Mail Order BustLine Center Home
Disclaimer
This information is not intended to be medical advice or scientific in nature and is based solely on anecdotal research from many sources and is presented as general information for historical purposes only. Anyone considering an option to undergo any type of elective surgery or medical procedure or having any health concerns should perform extensive research and consult with their physician before deciding upon a course of action.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References:
National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Panel. National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement: Breast Cancer Screening for Women ages 40-49, January 21-21, 1997 J Natl Cancer Inst 1997;89:1015-26.
Feig SA. Assessment of radiation risk from screening mammography. Cancer 1996;77:818-822.
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