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Mammogram

Test Overview

A mammogram is an X-ray, Opens dialog of the breast that is used to screen for breast cancer. Mammograms can find tumors that are too small for you or your doctor to feel.

There are several types of mammograms, Opens dialog. They include:

  • Standard mammogram. It puts images of the breast on film. This test is used less often than other types of mammograms.
  • Digital mammogram. It puts images of the breast in a computer file. X-rays of the breast are taken from at least two angles.
  • 3D mammogram, Opens dialog (also called digital breast tomosynthesis, or DBT). This uses X-rays from many angles to make a 3D image of the breast.

Cancer may be easier to treat when it's discovered in an early stage. Mammograms don't prevent breast cancer or reduce your risk of developing cancer. But mammograms may help reduce deaths from breast cancer.

Your doctor may recommend testing at a younger age if you are at high risk for breast cancer.

A mammogram can seem to detect a cancer, when in fact there's no cancer there. This is called a false-positive result. It can occur at any age, but it's more likely to occur if you are age 40 to 59. About 5% to 10% of screening mammograms will require more testing. This may include another mammogram of specific breast tissue or another test, such as an ultrasound, Opens dialog. Most of these tests will show that no cancer is present.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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