Mammography is an imaging modality that employs low-energy x-rays to identify calcification, an early indicator of breast cancer.
National Mammography Day falls on October 20 this year. National Mammography Day is observed on the third Friday of every October and is related to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While both organizations share a dedication to the well-being of women, the purpose of designating this day is to specifically motivate women to schedule an appointment. Early detection determines the outcome of treatment and is critical in preserving lives.
Mammography is an imaging modality that employs low-energy x-rays to identify calcification, an early indicator of breast cancer. Robert Egan introduced a groundbreaking technique for screening mammography in the late 1950s. He published his findings in 1959 and a book titled “Mammography” in the early 1960s. His development, which became referred to as “The Egan Technique,” enabled physicians to identify solidifying masses in the tissue of the breast.
The breast is compressed during a mammogram using a mammography unit. By increasing the density of the breast tissue, this compression reduces the quantity of scattered radiation and prevents motion-induced blurring. It is not advisable for women to apply deodorant, lotion, or talcum powder while undergoing these examinations, as these substances may appear as calcium spots on the x-ray. The procedure is purportedly excruciatingly painful or extremely unsettling, which may deter many women from returning or scheduling follow-up examinations.
Presently, more than 3.1 million individuals are alive in the United States alone as a result of early detection technologies such as mammography. Mammography consultations for women aged 40 and older are advised to be scheduled biennially. Nevertheless, women who are at an increased risk for developing breast cancer are advised to plan their appointments on an annual basis. Certain risk factors for developing breast cancer encompass extensive smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a familial predisposition to the disease. Additionally, there are measures that women can adopt to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer. These include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising routinely, and limiting their alcohol consumption.
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Annual and biennial mammography may pose risks to women under the age of 40; therefore, it is advised that the procedure not be initiated until after this age threshold is achieved. After the age of 40, the advantages of mammography significantly surpass the potential drawbacks.
Breast cancer detection by a conventional mammogram may be hindered in the presence of substantial breast tissue.
Although they are crucial for the race to early detection, mammograms do not prevent the development of breast cancer.
Tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, is the most advanced screening method for breast cancer detection, providing clinicians with superior images of dense breast tissue compared to conventional machines.
Breast implants will not obstruct a physician’s observation of the patient’s natural tissue.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | October 15 | Friday |
| 2022 | October 21 | Friday |
| 2023 | October 20 | Friday |
| 2024 | October 18 | Friday |
| 2025 | October 17 | Friday |
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