It’s the time of year when we see a flurry of information about breast cancer awareness — and that’s a very good thing. Though our news and social media feeds fill with posts about breast cancer screening and breast health, many people still hold back and don’t follow through on trustworthy advice.
“Misinformation about mammograms and breast health can make people procrastinate,” says Dr. Demytra Mihailidis, an Oncologist with ThedaCare Cancer Care specializing in breast cancer treatment. “Part of our job is to debunk these myths.”
Let’s bust some myths:
1. Monthly breast self-exams are still highly recommended.
Women were taught for years to do monthly breast self-exams. In recent years, experts have changed the way they recommend breast self-exams because research has not shown a clear benefit.
The new recommendation is to focus on breast self-awareness. That means knowing what is normal for your breasts so you can notice even small changes right away. These can include lumps, skin irritation, swelling, nipple discharge or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. Report any concerning changes to your health care provider.
2. Mammograms can cause cancer.
Neither breast compression nor the amount of radiation used in a screening mammography causes cancer or leads to the spread of cancer. “In fact, the National Cancer Institute states the benefits of finding cancer early far outweigh the risks,” Dr. Mihailidis says.
3. Thermograms are a good alternative to mammograms.
The Food and Drug Administration recommends against using thermography as a breast cancer diagnostic tool. Thermography, which uses an infrared camera to detect temperature differences within breast tissue, does not detect cancer in its early stages.
A thermography machine uses an infrared camera to detect temperature differences within your breast tissue. Anything that is causing an inflammatory response in the body will show up on a thermogram image as red or “hot.”
Conversely, a mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. Breast cancer, even in its very early stages, usually appears as a white mass.
“There is no way to follow up on a ‘hot spot’ from a thermogram aside from getting a mammogram,” Dr. Mihailidis says. “We recommend that women follow the screening guidelines of undergoing a mammogram either every year or every other based on their doctor or provider’s recommendations.”
4. All mammograms are the same.
There are two different types of screening mammograms. Two-dimensional (2D) mammograms capture flat X-ray images. Three-dimensional (3D) types take many more images from several angles, all within a safe level of radiation. The mammogram process is the same for both. However, the 3D type significantly improves breast cancer detection, and it is especially helpful for people with dense breasts. “A 3D mammogram also tends to reduce false positives, so it can decrease number of biopsies we perform as well,” Dr. Mihailidis says.
5. Mammograms are terribly painful.
Yes, a mammogram can cause some discomfort stemming from the compression of breast tissue during the imaging process. At the same time, the short-lived discomfort is well worth it for the peace of mind and early detection a mammogram can deliver.
For those who are nervous, Dr. Mihailidis encourages them to bring up their concerns before the mammogram starts. “Our technicians are fantastic at helping people to feel as calm and comfortable as possible.”
To reduce discomfort, consider scheduling your mammogram for the week or two after your period starts, as breasts often are more tender the week before and during menstruation. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen about an hour before your mammogram also can help.
6. If I get called back after a mammogram, it means I have breast cancer.
If you are called back, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong. In fact, the American Cancer Society states that fewer than one in 10 women who get called back for more tests are found to have cancer.
Mammograms are designed to track breast changes over time, so your first mammogram is especially important. You may be called back so the radiologist can get a clearer picture of your breasts. Other benign reasons for callbacks may be unclear images, areas of asymmetry, non-cancerous cysts or calcifications, or dense breasts.
Teasing Out the Truth
Now that we’ve dispelled the myths, here’s a reminder of what’s true. Recommendations vary by organization, but women should begin screening mammograms by the age of 40.
Your doctor or provider will offer recommendations around frequency based on your health history and risk factors. In certain cases, they also may recommend additional types of screening, such as MRI or ultrasound.
“Early detection is key to better outcomes when it comes to breast cancer,” Dr. Mihaildis says. “Prioritize your health with the simple step of completing mammograms as recommended.”
