What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray taken of the breast to detect changes or abnormalities. Two x-rays are normally taken of each breast. It is recommended that women over the age of 40 get a mammogram once a year. However, if a woman has breast cancer in her immediate family, her doctor may recommend one sooner for a baseline for future comparisons.

The annual mammogram a healthy woman receives is called a screening mammogram. A screening mammogram is used on women who have no symptoms of breast cancer. This test can detect tumors that have not been felt previously as well as microcalcifications, which are little deposits of calcium in the breast.

A diagnostic mammogram is given to a woman who may have a lump or other sign that may indicate breast cancer. Some of these symptoms can include a lump, breast pain, discharge from the nipple, a thickening of the skin or a change in the shape of the breast. The diagnostic mammogram takes longer than a screening mammogram. The technician will take multiple pictures at various angles, and may even take magnified pictures of particular areas.

Breast Cancer Risks

As a woman gets older, her chances of developing breast cancer increase. Some factors that may increase any woman?s risk for breast cancer are:

A family history of breast cancer, including a daughter, sister or daughter.
A personal history of breast cancer.
Two or more irregular but benign masses in the breast.
Childless or had the first child after 30.
Long term hormonal therapy.
Went through menopause after 55 years of age.
Previous radiation therapy.
Took diethylstilbestrol between 1940 and 1971.
Obesity.
An inactive lifestyle.
Moderate to excessive alcohol consumption.

Mammogram Statistics

Statistics show that 13 percent of women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer later in life. The greatest risk factor of any woman is age, making it important to receive a mammogram yearly after 40. The majority of breast cancer incidents occur in women over 50.

The most effective way to detect breast cancer is through a yearly physical exam and mammogram. Self breast examination is also important, but does not take the place of any form of examination by a physician.

There are some limitations in breast cancer screening. Even if a lump is detected, if it is a fast growing cancer, the mammogram's early detection does not ensure a cure. Mammograms can miss up to 20 percent of the lumps that are actually present in women, making the test a false negative. Also, older women have denser breasts, making lumps harder to detect. A false positive occurs when the radiologist reads a test as abnormal when there is actually no cancer present.

A mammogram generally costs between $50 and $150. Insurance company deductibles will vary, as will each diagnostic unit's price.

Women 40 and over who are on Medicare are allowed regular mammogram screenings. Furthermore, some State programs allow free screenings to particular groups of women such as those on a low income. So find the time to have a mammogram. It just may save your life!

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