A 15-minute mammogram can detect what years of waiting might miss.
At Healius Cancer & Haematology Clinics, we believe in empowering women through knowledge and preventive action. Mammograms remain the gold standard for early breast cancer detection—and for good reason:
- A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can spot tumours too small to feel, as well as microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits) sometimes linked to cancer.
- There are two types:
- Screening mammograms: for women with no symptoms, to catch abnormalities early.
- Diagnostic mammograms: when there are symptoms (e.g. lump, discharge) or follow-ups are needed.
- The procedure is quick, safe, and uses very low radiation—the risk is minimal and far outweighed by the potential benefits of early detection.
Benefits vs. Possible Downsides
Benefits:
- Earlier detection often means less aggressive treatment and better outcomes.
- Studies show regular screening can reduce breast cancer mortality in women aged ~40–74, especially 50–69.
Potential Harms:
- False positives — when an abnormality shows up but it is not cancer. These trigger further imaging or biopsy, leading to anxiety, cost, and discomfort.
- Overdiagnosis/overtreatment — screening may detect cancers (or non-invasive lesions like DCIS) that would never progress or threaten life; all detected lesions are typically treated.
- False negatives — about 1 in 5 cancers present may be missed. Dense breast tissue (common in younger women) increases this risk.
- Radiation exposure, though very low, is a cumulative risk. Still, for most women, the benefits outweigh this minimal risk.
Best Practices & Recommendations
- Mammogram guidelines differ across organizations: talk with your doctor to decide when to start and how often.
- In addition to mammography, clinical breast exams (done by healthcare providers) are valuable screening tools. Self-exams alone have not been proven to lower mortality.
- Breast tissue density complicates detection. Women with dense breasts should ask about supplemental imaging.
- Women with implants should still get mammograms; the imaging team can use special views to maximize visibility.
Conclusion
Do not let myths, fear, or “not enough time” stop you. A short scan today could make a world of difference tomorrow.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Healius offers:
- Free breast checkups with Dr. Hemalatha Kalwad
- Complimentary genetic counselling if there is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
Early detection can enable effective treatment success, improve survival and ensures better quality of life.
