How are Diagnostic Mammograms different from Screening Mammograms?

The difference between diagnostic and screening mammography needs to be recognised by patients and their referring doctors, since symptomatic or high-risk women require significantly different investigations from the asymptomatic routine screened patient. 

There is no specific time for mammography when there is a clinical indication (patient has symptoms and signs such as lumps, skin thickening, skin dimpling) for it and in this situation, this is considered a diagnostic mammogram. When it is necessary, especially when breast cancer is suspected, the sooner it is done, the better. 

Screening mammography is for women with no symptoms of disease. Normally this only entails 4 views of the breasts. However, if there are some areas to clarify, additional views will also be tailored for the abnormality.

If widespread screening is undertaken, it has proven cost effectiveness in the over 50-year old age group. It is almost certainly cost effective in the 40-49 year age group, although this is controversial. This was discussed in the section on the Mammography Debate.

Routine screening for ladies less than 40 years is normally not recommended as the dense breast tissue tends to obscure disease and active breast tissue may be more sensitive to radiation.

There is no upper age limit for screening mammography, since the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
 

What are the preparations for mammography?

It is a simple procedure and there is no need to fast. Wear a 2-piece outfit, either pants with blouse or skirt with blouse. This is not absolutely essential but helps so that you only need to remove your upper clothing. 

You should not apply any talcum powder, perfume or deodorant to your upper body, and armpit areas. These may cast “shadows” on the mammogram, which may affect the interpretation of the mammogram by the radiologist. 

If you have breast pain, you may wish to schedule your mammography after your period is over. This is normally the phase of the menstrual cycle where the breasts are less tender. 

If you have previous mammograms, please bring them along with you so that a comparison can be made between them. This helps the radiologist reading your films, especially in the detection of subtle abnormal details on your mammogram. It helps to improve the accuracy of the report.
 

What to do with your old mammogram?

Do not throw your old mammogram away or lose it!!

Your mammograms are an important part of your health history. Being able to compare earlier mammograms with new ones helps your radiologist evaluate areas that look suspicious. Always make sure that the radiologist who reads your mammogram has the old films to use for comparison. 
 

Early Detection
Can Save Your
Life!

There is no age limit for having a mammogram if your doctor suspects you may have breast cancer. In other words, if you have signs and symptoms and especially if you are of the common age group for breast cancer, you may be recommended for a mammogram.

However, a screening mammogram for breast cancer means having a mammogram done even though no abnormalities was detected in your breasts.