Myth #2:
Women in their 40s shouldn’t have mammograms because of high number of false alarms and call backs.
The Facts
A false alarm or false positive occurs when an area appears suspicious on a screening mammogram but is ultimately found to be normal after additional imaging or testing.
Being called back for additional images can understandably cause anxiety, but it’s important to understand what those callbacks mean. Most women who return for additional testing do not have breast cancer.
Additional evaluation may include:
- Extra mammogram views
- A breast ultrasound
- Occasionally, a minimally invasive biopsy
Most screening mammograms are normal. However, when something requires a closer look, additional imaging allows radiologists to gather more information before determining whether a finding is truly concerning.
While false positives are a recognized part of breast cancer screening, they must be weighed against the benefit of detecting cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage.
Breast cancer does occur in women in their 40s, and screening during this decade can help identify cancers before symptoms develop.
Myth #3:
Mammograms don’t work well for women with dense breasts.
The Facts
Breast density refers to the amount of fibroglandular tissue compared to fatty tissue in the breast. Dense breast tissue is common, and breast radiologists identify in close to 50% of women screened and is not abnormal.
Because dense tissue and breast cancer both appear white on a mammogram, cancers can sometimes be more difficult to identify in dense breasts. Fortunately, advances in breast imaging have improved our ability to detect cancer in these patients.
Today, digital breast tomosynthesis allows radiologists to evaluate breast tissue in thin layers, reducing the problem of overlapping tissue and improving cancer detection. The x ray beam moves in an arc over the patient’s breast creating a semi 3D image
For some women with dense breasts, supplemental screening such as breast ultrasound, breast MRI or contrast enhanced mammography (CEM) may also be recommended based on their individual risk factors.
It’s important to remember that mammography remains the best tool for detecting certain early-stage breast cancers, including ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which often cannot be detected by physical examination or ultrasound alone.
Having dense breast tissue does not mean mammograms are ineffective. Instead, it means you should discuss with your healthcare provider whether additional screening options may be appropriate for you.
Myth #4:
Mammograms are too painful.
The Facts
Mammograms involve brief compression that may feel uncomfortable, but the exam itself is usually completed quickly. Let the technologist know if you are especially sensitive or have concerns so they can help make the experience as comfortable as possible.
The Bottom Line
Mammograms save lives.
Whether you have a family history of breast cancer, are concerned about dense breast tissue, worry about discomfort, or fear being called back for additional imaging, the benefits of regular screening continue to outweigh the risks for most women.
Early detection provides more treatment options and can make a significant difference in outcomes.
If you’re due for your annual mammogram, don’t let common myths stand in the way of your breast health. Talk to your healthcare provider about your personalized screening plan that’s right for you based on your age, family history, breast density and breast cancer risk factors and schedule your mammogram today.
At Elizabeth Wende Breast Care, we are committed to providing innovative breast imaging and personalized care to help our patients make informed decisions about their health.
