What is Mammography? Why is it Important?

Breast health is a significant part of women’s reproductive and overall health. To ensure you have a healthy breast, a diagnostic imaging procedure called mammography is performed. The tests help in early detection and play a critical role in safeguarding it. Early detection of breast cancer can make a life-saving difference, and mammography is one of the most effective tools for catching it in its earliest stages when it's most treatable. In this blog we have explained what mammography is, why it is important and which is the best mammography test centre in Delhi. Stay Tuned for further details. 

What is Mammography?

Mammography is a specialized medical imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine the breast tissue. It's used primarily to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms develop.

There are two main types:

• Screening Mammography.

• Diagnostic Mammography 

How Does a Mammogram Work?

A mammogram involves compressing the breast between two plates to spread out the tissue. This allows for clear X-ray images of the internal structures.

• Each breast is typically imaged from two angles.

• The entire process takes about 20–30 minutes.

• While compression may cause brief discomfort, it’s usually well-tolerated and lasts only a few seconds.

Why is Mammography So Important?

Here’s why mammography is so important: 

• Early Detection Saves Lives

Breast cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. Mammography can detect tumours that are too small to be felt, allowing for:

1. 1. Earlier treatment

   2. Less aggressive therapies

   3. Higher survival rates

• Helps Monitor High-Risk Individuals

Women with a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2), or previous breast abnormalities may need more frequent or earlier screenings.

Mammography is a crucial tool for monitoring these high-risk individuals and catching any signs of cancer as soon as possible.

• Identifies Non-Cancerous Breast Conditions

Besides cancer, mammograms can also detect:

1. 1. Benign tumors

   2. Cysts

   3. Calcifications

   4. Fibrocystic breast changes

Benefits of Mammography

The key benefits of Mammography is mentioned below: 

• Early cancer detection

• Reduces breast cancer mortality

• Non-invasive and quick

• Detects abnormalities before symptoms appear

• Improves treatment outcomes and options

Limitations and Risks

Here are some of the limitations and risks associated with mammography mentioned below:

• False Positives

Sometimes mammograms detect something that looks abnormal but turns out to be harmless. This may lead to anxiety or unnecessary follow-up tests.

• False Negatives

Mammograms can occasionally miss cancers, especially in dense breast tissue.

• Radiation Exposure

Mammograms involve low doses of radiation, but the benefits far outweigh the minimal risk.

• Overdiagnosis

Some cancers found may never grow or pose a threat, but once detected, they are usually treated, which can lead to unnecessary interventions.

Visit Zena diagnostic centre for Women!

Mammography is one of the best tools available for early detection of breast cancer, significantly improving survival rates and reducing the need for extensive treatments. While no test is perfect, the benefits of regular screening far outweigh the risks, especially for women over 40 or those with higher risk factors.

Regular mammograms empower women to take control of their health and detect breast cancer when it's most treatable. If you haven’t had a mammogram yet or are unsure about when to start, talk to your doctor. It could save your life. Book your appointment at Zena Diagnostic Centre for Women in Greater Kailash.