Common Myths About Mammograms

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Mammogramsare a crucial part of breast cancer screening, providing a powerful tool for early detection. Though as Dr. Brynn Wolff, breast surgeon and medical director of breast surgery at UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa. shares, “Some women may avoid the screenings because of existing myths. There’s still a need to educate women about the importance of getting mammograms and to make sure they understand the reality of this important screening tool.”

Myth 1: Mammograms are extremely painful.

Mammograms should not be extremely painful. “Women may feel a little discomfort when the breast is compressed to gather the images, but it should not cause significant pain,” says Dr. Wolff. The breast must be compressed for a few seconds to gather an accurate image for the provider to review.

Myth 2: I only need a mammogram if I feel a lump in my breast.

Mammograms can detect changes in breast tissue before a lump may be felt. “If the mammogram detects an issue early, there’s more opportunity for a successful treatment and better survival rates,” she says.

Myth 3: A mammogram will expose me to a high level of radiation.

Mammography is a safe, effective screening and diagnostic tool for most women. However, because mammography uses x-ray imaging technology, it involves exposure to a very small amount of radiation.

The radiation dose is highly regulated and considered to be safe. The amount of exposure during a mammogram is the same as the amount of radiation you would be naturally exposed to in the environment daily over several weeks. There is no reliable data to suggest that the radiation dose used during annual mammography is harmful.

Myth 4: There’s no history of breast cancer in my family. I don’t need mammograms.

Dr. Wolff says, “Regardless of family history, everyone has a risk of developing breast cancer, even men. Without any family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, an average woman has a 12-13% risk (1 in 8 women) of developing breast cancer over her lifetime. We recommend starting annual mammography screening at age 40. This allows for early detection, less treatment and improved survival.”

Myth 5: Mammograms will cause or spread cancer by compressing the breast tissue.

Studies have found no increase in the risk of circulating tumor cells before versus after a mammogram. There is no science that shows any risk of causing or spreading cancer by compressing breast tissue. Flattening the breast tissue through compression allows for less radiation and images with more clarity.

“Breast cancer exists, but we can be proactive with our bodies by getting the necessary screenings,” she adds.

For more information about breast health, visit UPMC.com/BreastHealth.