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How much do you know about Mammogram

Mammography is the use of unique X-ray images to detect abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue. The set of breast images is known as “mammogram;” how does the breast tissue looks like? The breast tissue appears white and cloudy, while fatty tissue looks darker and clear.

According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer globally as of 2021, accounting for 12 percent of all new yearly cancer cases in the world. Due to increasing rise in the cases of breast cancer, women have been advised to get a mammogram. While many people don’t see the need for it, here is why getting a mammogram is crucial. Mammography can be a great defense against breast cancer as it usually can detect the disease at the onset (early stages), before it can be felt during breast examination.

However, the following age group of women¹ is to get mammograms based on the following criteria:

• 40 to 44 years: Women within this age have a choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.
• 45 to 54 years: They should get mammograms every year
• 55 years and above: they should switch to mammograms every 2 years or continue with yearly screening.

Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer. All women should be aware of the known benefits, limitations, and likely harms associated with breast cancer screening.

Does and Don’t when preparing for a Mammogram

• If you decide to go for a mammogram, you can eat, drink, and take your normal medications; however, you are to inform your doctor or the technician if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
• Don’t apply body powder, cream, deodorant, and lotion on your chest on the day of the test as they may interfere with the X-rays.
• You will be asked to take off jewelry and clothing above your waist and then wear a hospital gown.

What happens during the process?

A registered mammography technologist carry out the test, while a radiologist interprets the images or result. During the process, you will be asked to stand in front of an X-ray machine. The technologist will then place your breast between two radiographic breast supports. The support will be pressed together, gently flattening your breast. It is essential to do this in order to get a very clear image with the least amount of radiation. You may feel a little pain which last for a few seconds when the X-ray is taken. If you feel too much pressure, you should tell the technologist.

A mammogram is best carried out 7-10 days after your period when your breast is less likely to be tender.

Imaging tests helps doctors diagnose about 75 to 85 percent of breast cancers and detection rates become better as a woman ages because the breasts become less full as you age; making tissue easier to see through on mammograms.

While mammograms helps detect breast cancer on time, still not all breast cancers can be found on mammograms particularly in younger women who have more dense breast tissue. Hence, you should endeavor to have breast exams done by your doctor or nurse every 3 years at age 20 and every year from age 40 and above.