Mammogram FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Mammography Screening for Breast Cancer Answered

Breast Cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. And the aim of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019, is to increase the awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. One of the critical aspects of breast cancer is its prevention. Time to Time breast cancer screening as and when required, is advised from the experts. As per recommendations, biennial screening mammography is recommended. For women between the age of 50 to 54 years, mammograms are suggested every year, whereas for women aged 55 years and older screening in every two years is recommended. For women under the average risk of breast cancer mammography screening, every two years is suggested. However, if you are someone who hasn't ever undergone a mammography screening, here are a few FAQs answered for you. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019: From Love Bites To Implants, Things That May NOT Cause Breast Cancer!

What Is a Mammogram?

Mammography is the technique used to screen breasts for cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that helps detect early signs of breast cancer. This procedure helps early diagnosis of breast cancer sometimes even three years before it can be felt.

How Is a Mammogram Done?

For the ones who have never been for a mammogram test, you will need to stand in front of a special X-ray machine. Your breast will be placed on a clear plastic plate while being pressed by another plate from above. Once your breasts are flattened between the two plates slightly, an x-ray will be taken.

Are Mammograms Painful?

Sometimes mammograms may cause a bit of discomfort but the level of pain is different to various people. Some women do not experience pain during mammograms at all. The actual X-ray process may be a little painful for some. The discomfort caused due to being pressed against the plates is considered normal.

What Age Should a Woman Get a Mammogram?

The women between the age of 50 to 54 years should get mammograms done every year, if the experts ask you to.  Whereas for women aged 55 years and older screening every two years is recommended. For women under the average risk of breast cancer mammography screening, every two years is suggested. The point is to be in contact with experts from time to time, especially if you see any changes in your breast and its functions. How To Check Your Breasts For Lumps. 

What should I avoid before mammogram?

It is said that any kind of perfume, deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, powder, body cream under your arms or on your breasts should be avoided on the day of your mammogram appointment. They don't just make your mammogram process difficult but may sometimes also mimic as cancer cells.

Why mammograms are dangerous?

There is an on-going debate if radiation from mammography may increase risks of breast cancer.  However, mammograms are the only feasible way to trace cancer cells in the breast effectively. The adverse effects of mammography radiation are experienced by women who are exposed to radiation for other purposes or women who are carriers of the BRCA (breast cancer susceptibility) gene.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 17, 2019 11:54 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).