6 mammogram myths debunked
Many of us know the importance of mammograms and their role in reducing the risk of breast cancer, but changing screening recommendations can be confusing. Combined with the straight up myths you might be hearing or reading, you might be basing an important decision on wrong information. To help, breast imaging specialist Amanda Scopteuolo, MD, debunked some common mammogram myths.
Myth #1: Mammograms are dangerous.
“Every time you take a medication, drive a car, or any of the other of the countless decisions you make during a day, you consider the risks and benefits,” said Dr. Scopteuolo. “Choosing to have a mammogram is no different. Everyone must weigh the very small risk of the radiation exposure to the benefit of having a breast cancer detected early. And early detection is key when looking at survival.”
It has been determined by multiple randomized control studies that annual screening mammography decreases mortality from breast cancer. The technology behind screening mammography continues to improve, using less radiation while at the same time obtaining high-quality images.
Myth #2: Mammograms are painful.
“I meet so many women who regret delaying their first mammogram because of fear,” said Dr. Scopteuolo. “Most expected it to be painful and were quite surprised by how minimal the discomfort is.”
Mammograms do involve some compression, which is necessary for your technologist to get a good image. The feeling of compression only lasts for a few seconds, and most women don’t find it painful.
Myth #3: I don’t need a mammogram because I don’t have a family history of breast cancer.
“Unfortunately, I hear this almost every day,” said Dr. Scopteuolo. “Many women are taken by surprise with their diagnosis of breast cancer because they have no family history.”
In fact, most breast cancer patients do not have a family history. This is why it is important that all women get screened.
Myth #4: Mammograms can prevent breast cancer.
The purpose of a mammogram is to detect breast cancer as early as possible. Unfortunately, it cannot prevent cancer, but early detection is key to the best chance of survival.
Myth #5: I don’t need a mammogram unless I feel a lump.
“The entire goal of screening mammography is to find breast cancer before a woman can even feel it,” said Dr. Scopteuolo. “By the time a cancer is felt, it is already 15 to 20 mm in size.”
On the other hand, cancers that are just a few millimeters in size can sometimes be detected on a screening mammogram. By the time a breast cancer can be felt, it is usually larger and potentially more advanced. With early detection, treatment is easier, less invasive and more effective.
Myth #6: I just had a mammogram a year ago, so I don’t need one.
The American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging and Prisma Health all recommend yearly mammograms beginning at age 40.
The bottom line about screening mammography.
“Ultimately, it is your decision whether to have a screening mammogram or not,” said Dr. Scopteuolo. “Hopefully, the myths that I have debunked for you will help guide you in that decision.”
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