DESCRIPTION
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that examines breast tissue. A mammogram is useful for detecting breast cancer at an early stage. A mammogram can detect some types of cancer before you or your doctor can feel a lump.

Mammograms are used to check lumps that have been found in a physical or self-exam. They can help determine which lumps are cancerous and which are benign. A biopsy of suspicious lumps can then be performed and the lump can be removed. Mammograms can show exactly where a lump is located in the breast before surgery or a biopsy is done to remove it.

After age 50, you should have a mammogram every year. Check with your physician if you have an increased risk of breast cancer, because earlier and more frequent screening may be necessary. Your doctor should give you a breast exam once a year. In addition, you should do breast self-exams every month, even if you have yearly exams and mammograms.

PREPARATION
Be sure your underarms and chest are clean. Do not put any deodorants, powders or perfumes on your underarms or chest on the day your mammogram is to be done. These products can make it difficult to interpret the test results correctly.

PROCEDURE
A mammogram can be done in a doctor's office or X-ray clinic. You will be asked to take off your blouse and bra. The technician will use a large machine to take X-rays of each breast. The mammogram only takes a few minutes and is normally not painful. However, you will feel some pressure when your breasts are pressed between two plates for the X-rays, and your breasts may ache for a short time afterward. Each X-ray position requires just a few seconds.

Ask your doctor how you will be notified of the results and when you should have another mammogram. Comparing a series of mammograms done at different times, but at the same office or clinic helps detect early cancer.

BENEFITS
Mammograms help doctors diagnose various disorders of the breast. Most commonly, it helps find breast cancer at an early stage. One out of every eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. The smaller and the more localized the cancer at the time of diagnosis and treatment, the greater the likelihood of a cure. The mammogram allows the detection of some types of breast cancer one to two years before a doctor or patient could feel it by physical examination. There is a better chance of curing the cancer if it is found at an early stage.

RISKS
There are no known significant risks from having mammograms according to the recommended screening schedule. Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor.

CONSIDER NOTIFYING YOUR PHYSICIAN IF YOU:

• Notice a change in your breasts
• Find a lump during a self-exam
• Have nipple discharge
• Notice skin changes on your breasts.