Debunking old thoughts
Whether it’s a routine check-up or the very first time, there can be plenty of thoughts and emotions that come with mammograms. Some of those thoughts can be related to common myths or misunderstandings that tend to circulate around the screening tool. While it is important to take proactive and appropriate action in one’s breast health, it’s equally as crucial to have all the facts about mammogram screenings.
A mammogram, as defined by the National Cancer Institute, is an X-ray picture of the breast. A screening mammogram can be used for women who have no signs or symptoms of cancer, and a diagnostic mammogram is used after a lump or other symptom is present. The benefit for receiving a screening mammogram is that the X-ray pictures can detect tumors that can’t be felt, or tiny deposits of calcium that may be a sign of cancer.
While a main purpose of a mammogram is to detect for breast cancer, it’s not exactly a cancer-specific X-ray. Registered nurse Brenda Pierce is a certified nurse navigator with CHRISTUS Breast Cancer Center. She explained that a mammogram is simply a screening tool designed to find breast changes.
“In the event a change is detected – [which] is the reason it’s important to have annual mammograms so any change is detected early – a mammogram can detect a small cancer years before it is palpable and can be felt on a breast exam,” Pierce said. “Again, the reason it is important to have one every year.”
A recycled mammogram myth is that mammograms expose patients to high radiation doses, verging on the side of dangerous. Pierce quickly put this misunderstanding into perspective comparing exposure levels to other activities.
“You receive more radiation by flying cross country on an airplane or walking down the streets of New York than you receive at your annual mammogram,” she said.
As Pierce said, mammograms can detect a change within the breast years before it’s palpated, or able to be felt, therefore debunking the myth that self-exams are equally as effective.
“And not all breast cancers form a ‘lump’ – for example, calcifications and inflammatory breast cancer,” Pierce said.
Because mammograms can be used before any physical detection, the myth that they’re only used after a symptom is present is also put to bed.
Pierce said getting asked for additional testing is not always a confirmed indicator that cancer was found on the mammogram images.
“Getting called back for additional views after your screening mammogram is not considered a ‘positive’ mammogram,” she said. “It simply means that additional views, magnified views, ultrasound, etc., are needed in order to complete your evaluation. Any breast cancer survivor – including myself – will tell you, ‘Call me back all you need to,’ rather than ignore something and allow it to grow until you come back next year. Again, early detection is your best protection!” Screening for cancer or changes in the breast is every woman’s prerogative in taking their health seriously, and Pierce believes firmly that they should be the ones in control.
“I personally do not like all of the new studies that tell women that annual mammograms aren’t necessary. I want to tell women that this is your body and your health; you’re in charge,” she said.
While a mammogram isn’t exactly a walk on the beach, it is always worth the effort.
“The discomfort you feel for the few minutes of your mammogram is a very small inconvenience to pay for your peace of mind,” Pierce said.
When it comes to breast health, Pierce said there are three components.
“[First,] annual mammograms. We are seeing more and more younger women with breast cancer. Possibly not because it is more prevalent, but because these women are coming for their annual screenings, and we are detecting early breast cancers. Although mammograms are not fool-proof, they are still the gold standard.”
“Self-breast exam, [which you can] have your health-care provider show you how to do, [are important because] you know your body better than anyone, and you know when something just isn’t right,” she said. “Again, a self-exam is not a cancer search but rather a search for changes since you last checked your breast – breasts are like faces – they are all different!” The last component is the annual breast exam done by your primary care provider. Staying consistent and thorough is important in maintaining breast health. For more information about mammograms, check out the mammogram fact sheet, www.cancer. gov.
