Breast cancer is a major health concern among women around the world. According to cancer.gov, regular breast screening is essential in detecting breast cancer early and increasing the chances of survival. Let’s look at two of the most common types of breast screening tests available today: mammograms and ultrasounds.
Mammograms are X-ray images of your breasts that can detect abnormal changes in breast tissue. Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of your breasts that can show if a lump is solid or fluid-filled. Both tests are non-invasive. The ultrasound is painless, while the mammogram causes some discomfort which is tolerable for most women.
The type of screening you should get depends on several factors, such as:
- The risk for breast cancer increases with age with most cancers diagnosed after age 50. Experts recommend that Women who are 50 to 74 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years.
- If you have any symptoms of breast cancer, such as a new lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, or pain, you should see your doctor as soon as possible for a clinical breast exam and other tests you may need.
- Breast density. Dense breasts can make it harder to find cancer on a mammogram and may also be associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. Ask your doctor about other screening tests if you have dense breasts.
- Your personal risk of breast cancer. Some women have a higher than average risk of breast cancer due to factors such as family history, genetic mutations, previous breast cancer or radiation therapy to the chest2. These women may benefit from more frequent or earlier screening, or additional tests
Mammograms are fast procedures that take about 20 minutes. They should be done yearly starting at age 40 or earlier if you’re at high risk. The benefits of mammograms are clear: they can save your life by detecting breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. If breast cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are much higher, and the need for more invasive treatments is reduced.
Ultrasounds, on the other hand, are often used to provide additional information about a suspicious lump found on a mammogram or physical exam. They do not use radiation and are safe for pregnant women. However, they cannot replace mammograms as a screening tool because they may miss some cancers that mammograms can detect.
Talking to your doctor about when and how often you should have a breast screening test is an important step in ensuring your health. Mammograms and ultrasounds are safe and painless procedures that can detect breast cancer early. Book an appointment with your doctor for a breast screening test and get the peace of mind that comes with being proactive about your health.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your breast screening test today.
Sources:
- What Is Breast Cancer Screening? Center for Disease Control
- What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer? Center for Disease Control
- Mammogram, Mayo Clinic
