When should you get a Mammogram?

What is the importance of the Lipid Profile Test?
Are you a woman over 40 years of age? Wondering when you should get a mammogram done?
No worries!

This detailed blog will make you aware of what a mammogram is, when to get a mammogram, how to prepare for it, and the accuracy of its results.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is simply an x-ray of the breasts that is conducted to detect signs & symptoms of breast cancer. It also helps find out the size & location of the tissue that could be the onset of breast cancer.

It’s important to note that mammograms involve the use of lower dose x-rays as compared to that utilised in a regular x-ray scan.

When should someone get a Mammogram?

As per the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI), women aged 40 and above are advised to get a screening mammogram done every year.

Following are the general recommendations regarding mammograms for women according to age group:

  • 30-39 age: Consult with a doctor to evaluate your risk for breast cancer
  • 40+ age: Get an annual screening mammogram done
  • 50-74 age: Opt for a mammogram every 2 years

The above recommendations may vary depending on your specific risk for breast cancer. The major risk factors that increase your risk for breast cancer are

  • Previous history of breast cancer
  • Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
  • Having dense breasts than normal
  • Older age

If you experience any symptoms of breast cancer such as breast pain, a lump in the breast, abnormal nipples, swelling in the breast, etc., then a diagnostic mammogram needs to be conducted at the earliest regardless of your age.

How to prepare for a Mammogram?

In order to avoid or reduce the potential discomfort/pain that could be experienced during a mammogram, you could do the following preparation:

  • Informing the doctor about any breast implants you may be having, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Scheduling a mammogram when your breast tissue is less tender (around a week post your period)
  • Staying away from caffeinated drinks couple of days before the scan
  • Applying skin numbing products on your breast after consultation with the doctor
  • Telling the doctor/lab technician beforehand about any breast issues you may be having

Are the results of Mammogram accurate?

According to research studies, a screening mammogram misses around 1 in 8 breast cancers. Moreover, a mammogram could detect things that may resemble cancerous growth but aren’t actually cancerous.

Hence, doctors generally advise further diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound after noticing something in a mammogram, before coming to a conclusion.

Conclusion

Want to get a mammogram done but worried about experiencing pain/discomfort during the scan?
Don’t worry!

Our state-of-the-art diagnostic centre in Mulund West provides a best-in-class mammogram experience which is highly comfortable, safe and customer-friendly.

Call us 24×7 on 9504555555 to schedule an appointment at the earliest.

Spread the word

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes:

<a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

fourteen + 5 =