Mammogram

X-Ray, Breast (Mammography)

Test Overview

A mammogram is an X-ray test of the breasts (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump, and whether a lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mass.

A mammogram is done to help screen for or detect breast cancer. Many small tumors can be seen on a mammogram before they can be felt by a woman or her health professional. Cancer is most easily treated and cured when it is discovered in an early stage. Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman's risk of developing cancer. But regular mammograms can reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting a cancer when it is more easily treated.

Experts differ in their recommendations about when or how often women should have mammograms.

• For women between the ages of 40 and 50, the benefits of regular mammograms are not clear. Women should discuss the benefits and harms of mammograms with their doctors. Talk with your doctor to decide when to start and how often to have a mammogram.
  • The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) does not recommend routine mammograms for women ages 40 to 49. They say women should decide when to start having regular mammograms based on their situations, their individual risks, and what they prefer.
  • Some organizations recommend women have mammograms every 1 to 2 years, starting at age 40.
• For women older than age 50, regular mammograms are recommended.
  • The USPSTF recommends routine mammograms every 2 years for women ages 50 to 74.
  • Some organizations recommend women have yearly mammograms for as long as they are in good health.
• Women age 75 and older may want to talk to their doctors about whether they need breast cancer screening.

Your doctor may recommend testing at a younger age if you have risk factors for breast cancer.

A mammogram that appears to detect a cancer, when in fact a cancer is not present (false-positive results), can occur at any age but is more likely to occur in younger women. About 5% to 10% of screening mammograms will require more testing. This may include another mammogram of specific breast tissue (compression view) or another test, such as an ultrasound or biopsy. Most of these tests will show no cancer is present.

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Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN	Last Updated: February 12, 2009
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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