National Mammography Day: 4 breast cancer screening myths busted

Mammograms can detect breast cancer before symptoms appear, yet myths about family history, radiation exposure, self-examinations and pain may discourage women from screening. On National Mammography Day, an oncologist explains what women should know about breast cancer screening.

In Short

• Indian specialists advocate considering routine screening mammography from age 40
• A typical examination delivers approximately 0.4 millisieverts of effective radiation
• Self-examinations can reveal changes but cannot detect every early abnormality

Breast cancer screening is often misunderstood, with many women believing they need a mammogram only if they have a family history or notice a lump. On National Mammography Day, Dr Sunny Jain, Clinical Director, Medical Onco-Sciences and Head of Medical Oncology at Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad, explains four common myths about mammograms and why women should understand their screening options.

MYTH 1: YOU DON'T NEED A MAMMOGRAM IF YOU HAVE NO FAMILY HISTORY

Fact: A family history of breast cancer can increase a woman's risk, but its absence does not mean she cannot develop the disease. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history.

Mammography is an X-ray examination that can detect suspicious changes in breast tissue before they become large enough to be felt. Women should discuss the appropriate age to begin screening with their doctor, taking into account their individual risk factors.

In India, the Breast Imaging Society, India, has advocated considering screening mammography from the age of 40. Women with a strong family history, BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, previous breast cancer or other high-risk factors may need an earlier or more intensive screening plan.

It is also important to seek medical evaluation if you notice a new lump or other suspicious breast change, regardless of your age or family history.

MYTH 2: MAMMOGRAMS EXPOSE YOU TO DANGEROUS LEVELS OF RADIATION

Fact: Mammography uses ionising radiation, but the radiation dose from a routine examination is low.

According to RadiologyInfo, a typical mammogram of both breasts delivers an effective radiation dose of approximately 0.4 millisieverts. The actual dose may vary depending on breast size, equipment and imaging technique.

Although radiation exposure is not entirely without risk, the potential risk from a properly performed mammogram is very small. For women in recommended screening groups, the benefits of detecting breast cancer early generally outweigh this risk.

Women who are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant should inform their radiologist so that the need for imaging can be assessed.

MYTH 3: BREAST SELF-EXAMINATIONS ARE JUST AS EFFECTIVE AS MAMMOGRAMS

Fact: Breast self-examinations and mammograms serve different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably.

Being familiar with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts can help you notice changes such as a lump, skin dimpling, nipple inversion or unusual discharge. However, some breast cancers are too small to be felt or may not cause obvious symptoms in their early stages.

Mammography can detect abnormalities, including tiny calcium deposits and changes in breast tissue, that may not be noticeable through touch.

Women should pay attention to new or persistent changes and seek medical advice rather than ignore them. A normal mammogram should not be used to dismiss a suspicious lump or other ongoing symptoms, as some cancers may not be visible on mammography.

MYTH 4: MAMMOGRAMS ARE TOO PAINFUL TO UNDERGO

Fact: Some women experience discomfort during a mammogram, but the procedure is generally brief.

During the examination, the breast is compressed between two plates to spread the tissue and obtain clearer images. This compression also helps reduce the radiation dose required. The discomfort usually settles shortly after the examination.

Women who experience breast tenderness during their menstrual cycle may find it more comfortable to schedule their mammogram after their period. They should also tell the radiology technologist if the compression becomes particularly painful so that positioning can be adjusted where possible.

Avoid applying deodorants, powders, creams or lotions to the breasts and underarms on the day of the examination, as these products can interfere with image interpretation.

While some discomfort is possible, fear of pain should not lead women to indefinitely postpone recommended screening.

WHAT IF A MAMMOGRAM SHOWS AN ABNORMALITY?

An abnormal mammogram does not automatically mean breast cancer. Some findings may be benign and require only additional imaging or follow-up.

Depending on the results, a doctor may recommend diagnostic mammography, a targeted ultrasound or, in some cases, a biopsy to determine whether cancer is present. Women should complete the recommended investigations without unnecessary delay.

Mammography is not a perfect test and may not detect every cancer. However, it remains an established method of identifying breast cancer before symptoms appear in women for whom screening is recommended.

Women should not wait for a lump or assume they are protected because they have no family history. Discussing individual risk, screening age and frequency with a doctor can help them make informed decisions about breast health.

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