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If you are a woman who has reached the age of 40, regular mammograms should be made a priority. These help detect unusual changes in the breast that could mean cancer before you are symptomatic. The gold standard for early detection of tissue issues, mammograms are a screening and diagnostic tool that could potentially raise your chances of survival should you be diagnosed with breast cancer.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray used to detect ‘unusual changes’ in the breast tissue of a woman.
CRUCIAL BREAST SCREENING FROM AGE 40
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that checks for any unusual changes in a woman’s breast. Changes found here may be an indicator that further testing such as MRI scans and biopsies may be needed to check for breast cancer. Mammograms alone cannot confirm a cancer diagnosis, but they are a good starting point. They could show if there is something in the breast that shouldn’t be there. To confirm if a growth is malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous) may require surgical removal or some other diagnostic means to study the tumour. If symptoms exist, a deeper investigation will take place.
Conversations On Precautionary Measures
Between the ages of 40 and 75, women generally need a mammogram every one or two years. The sooner discussions on this are initiated with your doctor, the better you will feel about your chances. There are two types of mammograms (imaging technology). The first is a ‘screening mammogram’ to check for irregularities where there are no clear symptoms. The second is a ‘diagnostic mammogram,’ which is the go-to if a new symptom like a mass (found on a screening mammogram) or pain appears. Your doctor will discuss future options with you based on how your tests go at this preliminary stage.
Mammograms: A Digital Imaging Procedure
If you are new to mammograms, here are some quick pointers to deepen your understanding. Breast compression is necessary to hold the breast still and minimise movement as the exam starts. During this assessment, your breast will be placed on a support plate attached to the X-ray machine. Called a ‘paddle,’ a parallel plate is used to squeeze the breast as X-rays pass through it from the machine to a detector on the opposite end. This detector transmits electronic signals to a computer to produce a digital image. This image is called a mammogram. This examination is done by a mammographer, and can take anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes. It won’t hurt but some discomfort is to be expected.
Benefits To Personal Health and Wellbeing
A routine breast check-up received annually could save you a lot of money and worry down the road. Don’t trade your peace of mind or comfort of informed decisions regarding your health for anything. Making excuses and delaying the necessary will not do you any favours, so be mindful and proactive. The benefits of having scans and screenings done are many, with early detection being the main one. This information holds the power to a greater survival rate should your tests come back positive for breast cancer. Knowing of abnormalities in your body is good, because then, treatment might follow.
A reliable physician will provide solid counsel, especially about what to expect during a mammogram.
Patient Expectations During A Mammogram
Therefore, it is important to choose a healthcare professional you feel comfortable with and trust. A reliable physician will offer sound counsel, especially about what to expect during your mammogram. Here are some helpful guidelines. You will be handed an open-front hospital gown to change into and advised to remove all your jewellery. While standing facing the machine, the radiology technologist will give you simplified instructions, taking you through the entire process one breast at a time. The exam ends once the needed digital images are captured, with a follow-up scheduled for your results.
PMC: MAMMOGRAPHY SERVICES AND MORE
Putra Medical Centre is specialised in mammography services and possesses the expertise to match. Having journeyed with multiple generations of female patrons over these past three decades, our skillful teams of clinical and non-clinical professionals are seasoned at walking patients through every step of their women’s health experience. If you have questions regarding mammograms, call us today to make an appointment or visit our hospital for a consultation with one of our resident consultants.
