The breast is considered a symbol of femininity. So, any harm to it makes a huge impact on the physical as well as emotional health of a woman. Recently, people were taken aback when one of our popular Bollywood actresses was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. Mammography is the single worldwide acceptable screening test to diagnose breast cancer. Mammography expert from Vama Wellness Centre for Women, Dr. Renu Gandhi, discusses the modality and its necessity in the modern era.
What is a Mammogram?
It is an X-ray picture of the breast. The radiation involved is minimal compared to that in a routine chest X-ray. So, it is safe from a radiation hazard point of view.
How is it done?
You stand in front of an X-ray machine where your breast is comfortably placed between two plastic plates. Slight compression makes the breast flat, and then an X-ray is taken.
What does it show?
A mammogram may show:
- Normal breast features (negative study)
- Or an abnormal finding suggesting cancer
- A benign condition (no cancer)
When is it recommended?
- All women above 40 years should have an annual mammogram.
- Any woman over 30 years with complaints in the breast, like pain, discharge, or a lump.
- Any younger woman with breast symptoms and a high risk of breast cancer, after expert opinion (these cases are usually preceded by sonomammography).
Who is at high risk?
- Women with certain genetic mutations.
- Women who have not been pregnant.
- Women who have used hormonal birth control or hormonal replacement therapy.
- Women who are overweight.
- Women who have a family history of breast cancer.
- Women who smoke.
While breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in India, early detection may save many lives. To live healthily and happily, one must keep a check on body functions by going for regular health check-ups. This helps in assessing risk factors and diagnosing the disease at an early stage, which will result in effective treatment and better management of the condition.
For further queries or help:
Call Vama: 0261-2205550 / 7096999555
Email: vamawellness@gmail.com
Visit: Vama Wellness Centre for Women,
1st Floor, Rupal Hospital building,
Lane near Kargil Chowk, next to Vijay Sales,
Piplod, Surat, Gujarat – 395007, India.
