The Myths of Breast Imaging
The Myths about Mammograms
- Cancers do not show up on mammograms.
- I am 35 so I do not need a mammogram.
- Mammograms rupture implants.
- There is too much radiation from a mammogram.
- Your previous mammograms are not important. Each exam should be treated as a separate exam.
- Analog mammograms are not worth my time. Digital is better.
The Truth about Mammograms
- Although 20% of breast cancers are missed on mammograms. Mammograms save lives by diagnosing 80% of cancers!!
- Mammograms are a screening tool.
- If you are 40 years old, you should have a mammogram EVERY YEAR.
- A baseline mammogram should be performed at age 35.
- Women with implants should have a mammogram. Mammograms do not routinely rupture implants.
- Analog is still worth having if you have no other options. Digital penetrates the tissue better in women with dense breast tissue.
- Your previous mammograms could save you an unnecessary biopsy.
- A round trip flight across the US is equal to the radiation received in during a mammogram