The Benefits of Mammograms, as Explained by the Center for Diagnostic Imaging

MIAMI, December 31, 2018 (Newswire.com) - When a woman has a mammogram, the radiologist examines the breast tissue to check for signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms can help detect breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective, explains the Center for Diagnostic Imaging. Many doctors believe an annual mammogram is compulsory for women over 35.

Here is a list of the benefits of mammograms:

1. Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer early. 

Detecting breast cancer when it's an early stage can reduce the risk of dying from the disease by up to a third. Mammograms are the most dependable method of tracking breast cancer and will catch 8 percent of cases. 

2. Kinds of mammograms

There are different kinds of mammograms. If a woman has large breasts or is under the age of 50, they will have added breast tissue. In this case, a digital mammogram will be more effective in allowing the radiologist to zoom into the image.

3. Comparison

Another way to maximize the benefits of a mammogram is for patients to bring the results of earlier mammograms to an appointment. This way, radiologists can link the images and see any changes from one routine mammogram to the next.

4. Computer-Aided Detection

Some screening services now have computer-aided detection (CAD). This advancement in breast screening permits radiologists to look even more closely at the breasts and pay consideration to any areas of concern.

5. Things To Avoid

Patients should not apply deodorant or antiperspirant when they go for a mammogram. Underarm deodorants and antiperspirants can hinder with the images, making them harder to read.

6. Routine Mammograms
Mammography is not the only way to track breast cancer. As vital as routine mammograms are, they can miss up to 20 percent of breast cancer cases. Women should also complete self-exams and go for other screening tests — ultrasounds and MRIs can be used in addition to a mammogram. Women should have a diagnostic mammogram routinely from the age of 40 onwards. If there is a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer, then they should commence mammograms from the age of 30. The earlier they commence screening, the more chance they have of catching breast cancer early.

A mammogram result necessitating further tests doesn’t automatically mean a woman has breast cancer. Nearly 10 percent of women will need further tests, such as a biopsy or MRI scan, to rule out cancer but the great majority of women will still be cancer-free.

About CDI: The center is owned and operated by a team of board-certified physicians and staff determined to be South Florida's premier imaging series. CDI is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of the community through the use of the most highly advanced technology and techniques currently available within the imaging industry. As a premier imaging center in Miami, CDI offers CT scans in Miami, mammograms in Miami, and MRI in Miami Beach.

Source: The Center for Diagnostic Imaging