What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a safe test which uses a low-dose x-ray machine to take pictures of and look for problems with a woman’s breasts. Results are recorded on x-ray film or directly onto a computer. Mammograms allow radiologists to look for breast lumps and changes in breast tissue. They can show small lumps or growths that may not be felt during a clinical breast exam.
A mammogram is a safe test used to look for any problems with a woman’s breasts. The test uses a special, low-dose x-ray machine to take pictures of both breasts. The results are recorded on x-ray film or directly onto a computer for a radiologist to examine. Mammograms allow the doctor to have a closer look for breast lumps and changes in breast tissue. They can show small lumps or growths that a doctor or woman may not be able to feel when doing a clinical breast exam. “Mammography” is the best screening tool that doctors have for finding breast cancer. If a lump is found, your doctor may order other tests, such as ultrasound or a biopsy–a test where a small amount of tissue is taken from the lump and area around the lump. The tissue is sent to a lab to look for cancer or changes that may mean cancer is likely to develop. Breast lumps or growths can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Finding breast cancer early means that a woman has a better chance of surviving the disea
A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray picture of the breast. Mammograms are quick and easy. You simply stand in front of an x-ray machine. The person who takes the x-ray places your breast between two plastic plates. The plates press your breast and make it flat. This may be uncomfortable for a few seconds, but it helps to get a clear picture. You will have x-rays taken of each breast. (“Mammograms: Not just once, but for a lifetime”, National Cancer Institute) Your mammogram facility (this can include breast clinics, radiology departments, mobile vans and doctor’s offices) can send you a report with your mammogram results. There should be an easy-to-understand version and a medical version. Usually the staff of the facility can recommend a doctor if your results indicate you should visit one.
