Mammogram: breast x-ray

Mammogram: breast x-ray

Recently, breast cancer is the second most common cancer found in Thai women. Itis likely to increase more and more every year. The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown. However, early detection is the best way to cure it, which is called screening.

Screening for the general people

• 20-40 years old: perform breast self-examination every month and a breast examination by a doctor every 3 years.
• Age 40 and over: perform breast self-examination every month and have a breast examination by a doctor every year.

Screening for at-risk women

• Self-examine your breasts every month and have a breast examination by a doctor every yearใ
• Take a mammogram every 2 years.

Preparation before a mammogram

• Abstain from beverages or drugs containing caffeine because it will stimulate the excretion of a lot of water.
• Do not use deodorants or talc because they contain substances that cause water retention. When pressing the breast, it will be very painful. Moreover, the powder contains radioactive substances, which can be seen on the image and may be misunderstand of microcalcification.

Ultrasound breast examination

• Use for unclear image from mammogram.
• Use for distinguishing of solid and cystic mass. Ultrasound can clearly diagnose cystic mass.
• Disadvantages: Cannot be used as a screening test because microcalcification cannot be seen (carcinogens are as small as microns).