Mammograms: The best tool for early detection of breast cancer

By Judy Destouet, M.D.

Dr. Destouet, a board-certified radiologist and one of the top 10 women’s imaging specialists in the nation, is Chief of Mammography for Advanced Radiology. She has more than 30 years experience in women’s imaging and is a nationally recognized expert in that field.

Mammography remains both the best and most widely available tool for the early detection of breast cancer. A yearly mammogram starting at age 40 (or earlier if recommended by your physician) in combination with a clinical breast exam performed by a physician is your best opportunity to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages when it is better able to be treated. Early detection also gives you the option to take advantage of a wider range of treatment options, some of which are less invasive than traditional treatments.

National Cancer Institute risk statistics tell a compelling story. At 30, a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer is 1 out of 2,525. By 40, that risk jumps to 1 out of 217 and by 60 the risk is 1 out of 24. In addition, studies have shown regular screening mammograms reduce breast cancer deaths for women by as much as thirty percent.

Are there risks to mammography?

Some women are concerned mammograms, which are low-dose X-rays, expose them to radiation. Actually, the exposure is quite small—equal to the amount of radiation you naturally would be exposed to during an airplane flight across the country.

Where you get your mammogram matters
When choosing where to get your mammogram, look for a center that:

• performs a large number of mammograms each year
• has technicians and radiologists with special expertise in performing and interpreting mammograms.
• is certified by the Food and Drug Administration in compliance with the Mammography Quality Standards Act

The Advanced advantage
Advanced Radiology performs more than 150,000 mammograms each year, more than anyone else in Maryland. That experience combined with the expertise of our team of dedicated mammographers has resulted in a 95% success rate in finding breast cancer with mammography compared to a 75% national average.

Make mammograms a priority
In the last decade and a half, breast cancer death rates have declined nearly 20%. Experts believe an increase in the number of women who receive an annual mammogram is a key element in that decline, so be sure to follow your physician’s recommended schedule for mammograms.