Mammogram

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

Mammograms remain the most important tool for diagnosing breast cancer in its earliest stages for most women, yet many women skip their routine mammogram appointments or avoid having them altogether. We’re dedicating this article to raise awareness about the importance of regular mammograms — and, hopefully, to motivate at least some of our patients to schedule a mammogram or a clinical breast exam today.

Who should have a Mammogram?

Most medical agencies agree women should at least consider having routine mammograms in their 40s, especially women who have risk factors for breast cancer. In fact, women who have known breast cancer risks might benefit from even earlier screenings. Some medical groups recommend annual mammograms beginning at age 40, even in women who don’t have known risk factors. Others say annual screening can wait until a woman is in her mid-40s. Why the discrepancy? Because the risk of breast cancer is lower for most women in their 40s, but that doesn’t mean it’s rare. At the very least, all women in their 40s should discuss their need for regular mammograms with their doctors.

Importance of regular Mammograms?

Mammograms are an important breast cancer screening tool for women. The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates over 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. One in eight women either currently has or will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, and eight out of nine women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease. As breast cancer risk increases with age, mammograms are among the best early detection methods, and early detection is critical. If detected early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer exceeds 96 percent.

Are Mammograms safe ?

Mammograms expose your breasts to small amounts of radiation, but the benefits of mammography outweigh any possible harm from the radiation exposure. If there’s any chance you might be pregnant, let your healthcare provider and technologist know. Although mammograms are generally safe during pregnancy, healthcare providers usually recommend postponing screening mammograms if you don’t have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

You can schedule your mammogram at Koshys Hospital, when it is convenient for you, usually in the morning. Simply call: +91 761 8737 389. Don’t wait another minute.

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