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Mammogram
What is Mammography?
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
Example of the images produce by Mammography
How is the Mammogram performed and how long does it take?
The Mammogramis are quick, comfortable and easy. You will be asked to remove all clothing above the waist including jewelry and metal objects from around the neck.
Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms and also to detect and diagnose brease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.
Mammograms are used as a screening tool to detect early breast cancer in women experiencing no symptoms and also to detect and diagnose brease in women experiencing symptoms such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge.
Breast Cancer
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and is a major cause of illness and death.
- if found early, the changes of controlling the disease is high and it may not be necessary to remove the affected breast.
- Signs of breast cancer may include pain, skin thickening, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape.
Who should get a mammogram
- At least 40 years old
- Never had a ammmogram before or the last mammogram was more than two(2) years old.
- Have any of the following risk factors :-
(a) Have a mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer
(b) Menopause and on hormone replacement therapy
(c) Have had previous history of breast cancer
(d) Have breast lump(s) or recent changes in the breasts or your doctor has recommended a mammogram for you
(e) Long-term use of menopausal hormone therapy
Are there any risk in having a mammogram ?
With modern machinery, the amount of radiation delivered to the breast is very loow, which is about the same as the average person receives from background radiation in three(3) months.
The health risk of having aq mammogram is much less than the health risk of smoking one cigarette.
The health risk of having aq mammogram is much less than the health risk of smoking one cigarette.
What can I do to keep my breast healthy?
- Seek advice early if you notice any change in your breast. Don't wait and worry.
- If you are 40 years and above, require your doctor for a mamogram.
- As your age increases, regular mammograms should become part of your usual health checks.
- Have your doctor examined your breast at least once a year.
- Do monthly breast self examination(BSE).
How do I prepare for a mammogram ?
- Preferably, you should schedule your test one week after your menstrual period.
- Wear a comfortable 2-piece outfit.
- Do not use deodorant, perfume, powder or ointment on the underarms or breast. They may produce artifacts in the radiographs
- On the day of the exam, wear a skirt or pants, rather than a dress, since you¡¯ll need to remove your top for the test.
- Avoid scheduling your mammogram at a time when your breasts
are swollen or tender, such as right before your period.