To win the battle against breast cancer, it is important to find it early. X-rays of the breast are used in mammography, which is a very useful tool for finding cancer early. Still, there are a lot of false beliefs and myths about mammograms that make people scared and confused.
Some common myths about mammograms need to be busted so that the truth can shine through. For more information on why getting regular scans is important and how to make an appointment, learn here.
Myth 1: You only need a mammogram if someone in your family has had breast cancer.
Finding breast cancer early is very important for good treatment. Having a history of breast cancer in your family does raise your chances, but a lot of women who get breast cancer do not have a family history. As a screening tool, all women over 40 should get regular scans, even if their family has a history of breast cancer.
Myth 2: Getting a mammogram hurts.
These days, scans get good pictures by compressing them. Some women might not like the tightness, but most people do not find it painful. Technicians also know how to make things as easy as possible for the patient.
Myth 3: You are exposed to dangerous amounts of radiation during mammograms.
There is some radiation used in mammograms. But the amount is very small and carefully controlled to keep people safe. The benefits of finding cancer early are much greater than the small chance of being exposed to radiation.
Myth 4: If my first mammogram comes back clear, I will not need any more.
Regular scans are important for finding problems early. Since breast cancer can happen between tests, it is very important to stick to the suggested plan. When cancer is found early, it can be treated while it is still small and easier to handle.
Myth 5: Mammograms can make you get cancer.
It is not supported by science that scans lead to cancer. A very small amount of radiation is used in scans.
Why are regular mammograms important?
Finding breast cancer early is the most important part of treating it successfully. Mammograms can find cancer even before any signs show up. This means that treatment can start right away, which increases the chances of a full recovery.
All women over the age of 40 should get regular scans. If you are more likely to get breast cancer, your doctor may suggest that you start getting scans younger or have them more often.
Mammography is a safe and useful way to find breast cancer early. Do not let false beliefs and myths keep you from getting this check that could save your life. Talk to your doctor about the things that put you at risk and make a plan for how you will be screened.
Some additional things to consider.
Ultrasounds or MRIs may be needed in addition to scans for women with thick breast tissue since dense breast tissue can make it hard to see problems. Women with a normal risk should get a mammogram at age 40, but women with a higher risk may need to start earlier.
It is important to give information that is sensitive to different cultures because it can affect how people feel about breast cancer and exams. This can be done by giving women from different cultures culturally appropriate learning tools, providing translators, and making sure they feel welcome in their surroundings.
Getting scans is important for better results, especially in areas that do not get enough of them. This could mean adding more mammogram rooms, making screening services more cheap, and helping people get to the tests. Getting rid of language and cultural hurdles can also help more women get mammograms.
By clearing up myths and learning the facts about mammograms, women can take charge of their breast health, find problems early, and make sure they get good care.
