What Type of Cancer Can Be Detected with a Mammogram?

Mammograms are one of the most important preventive health tools for women aged 40 and older, or those who may be at risk for breast cancer or another breast condition due to their family history and other known risk factors. At Professionals for Women's Health in Columbus, OH, our caring team performs advanced mammography — including both screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms — as part of our comprehensive range of women's health services.

While most people know that mammograms can help detect breast cancer, you may be surprised to learn that benign tumors and breast cysts can also show up on mammograms. More importantly, mammograms are often able to identify breast cancers before they become palpable — often when they are in their earlier stages and treatment has a higher chance of success. Here, you'll find additional information about what can be detected on a mammogram, how often you may need a mammogram, and more.

What will show up on a mammogram?

Mammograms are a form of x-ray imaging specifically used to evaluate breast tissue. During a mammogram, the breast tissue is compressed into thin layers to allow for more detailed imaging and visibility. In many cases, mammograms detect breast cancer, or tumors, while they are still extremely small and not able to be felt during a manual breast exam. This is critical when it comes to the early detection and treatment of breast cancer, as breast cancer treatments are generally more successful the earlier a cancer is found. In addition to detecting malignant breast cancers, mammography may also show benign breast tumors, a cyst in the breast, and dense or fibrous breast tissue.

Does a benign breast tumor need to be removed?

If a benign tumor or cyst is found on your mammogram, our providers will discuss what this may mean for you, whether the benign finding needs to be removed, and other details. The recommended course of action for a breast cyst or benign breast tumor will vary based on the patient's overall health, any symptoms they may be experiencing, and other factors. In many cases, benign breast cysts or tumors do not need to be removed.

What's the difference between a screening mammogram vs. diagnostic mammogram?

Our Columbus, OH mammography services include both screening and diagnostic mammograms. While the process of each type of mammogram is similar, a screening mammogram is considered a routine, preventive study used to evaluate women at regular intervals — usually annually — who are considered at average risk for breast cancer. A diagnostic mammogram, on the other hand, may be ordered when a woman is found to have a palpable breast abnormality, a lump in the breast, or another sign or symptom of breast cancer or breast condition.

How do I prepare for a mammogram?

Some tips for preparing for a mammogram include:

Minimize or cut out caffeine for several days prior to your mammogram
Do not use lotions or deodorants on the day of the mammogram
Consider taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce discomfort
Wear a two-piece outfit
Tie your hair back
Bring any previous mammogram results, questions, and any other paperwork you may have to discuss

While a mammogram isn't something women necessarily look forward to, preparing with these tips can help make the experience as smooth, quick, and comfortable as possible ·— and, of course, adhering to your regular mammogram screening schedule is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health and wellness.

Is it time for your yearly mammogram in Columbus, OH? Don't delay

If you are aged 40 or older and at an average risk for breast cancer, it may be time to start your annual mammogram screenings. At our Professionals for Women's Health location in Columbus, OH, we offer both screening and diagnostic mammograms using advanced imaging technologies and the latest comfort-enhancing measures, including the MammoPad®, to help make your experience as easy as possible. To learn more about the importance of mammograms, or to schedule your Columbus, OH mammogram, call to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members today.