What is the Screening Mammography for Breast Cancer?

Mammography is an imaging method obtained by using low-dose x-rays used in the diagnosis of breast cancer and other breast diseases. It is the only method proven to reduce deaths from breast cancer. Regular screening for breast cancer is achieved by having a mammography examination every year from the age of 40. Mammography performed annually starting from the age of 40 for women who have no complaints is called screening mammography.

When Should the First Mammography Be Performed?

The first mammogram starts at the age of 40 in people who are in the middle and low-risk group, that is, people who do not have breast cancer genetically.

At What Age Should Mammography Be Performed?

According to the recommendation of the American Cancer Institute, the World Health Organization, and the Turkish Federation of Breast Diseases, mammography should be performed once a year between the ages of 40-70, and once a year or every two years after the age of 70, depending on the physical performance of the person.

When Should Mammography Be Performed?

Mammography should be performed when the breast tissue is least sensitive. For this reason, it is recommended to be performed in the week of the end of menstruation, especially in women with hypersensitivity in the breast tissue. However, in women with no sensitivity, performing mammography on any day has no effect on the image.

How to Perform Mammography?

Mammography is done by compressing the breast tissue for a few seconds between two plates in two projections. The compression level is automatically performed at a certain level on most systems. In this way, the breast tissue is thinned, and it is ensured that it receives less radiation. If contrast-enhanced mammography is not performed during the procedure, no medication is used. 

Is It Necessary to Prepare Before Mammography?

Mammography does not require any preparation before the procedure. However, cosmetic products such as deodorant, powder, and body lotion should not be used before the procedure, as they may affect the film.

Is Mammography Painful?

Mammography is done by compressing the breast tissue in two projections for a few seconds between two plates. The compression level is automatically applied at a certain level in many systems, and thanks to the compression, less radiation dose is delivered to the breast. The procedure is basically a painless method, and the feeling of pain can change according to the pain threshold of the person. It is stated that less pain is felt in next-generation digital mammography and especially mammography devices with the tomosynthesis feature.

Does Mammography Have Any Harm?

Mammography is an imaging technique obtained with X-ray and includes ionizing radiation. However, since digital detectors are used instead of cassette film combinations in digital mammography systems used today, the radiation dose is lower. Scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of annual mammography screenings in reducing the number of deaths from breast cancer.

Is Mammography Performed After Breast Surgery?

A mammography examination should be performed at least 6 months after breast surgery. In patients receiving radiotherapy treatment, this period should be arranged as 6 months after the end of the treatment.

Can People with Silicone Implants Have Mammography?

A silicone implant is not shown as an obstacle to mammography. Compressing the implant during the examination does not have a damaging effect on the implant. However, women with silicone implants should inform the technician who will perform the mammography before the procedure. However, it is recommended that women with silicone have breast ultrasonography performed together with mammography.