Understanding Mammograms & Breast Screenings

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. However, early detection through regular screenings makes a significant difference in survival rates. This is where mammograms come in — one of the most effective tools in identifying breast cancer early, often before any symptoms appear.

But still, many women have questions, such as:

• When should I start screening?
• What happens during the test?
• Are there risks involved?

Let’s break it all down so you’ll feel confident and informed about mammograms and breast screening offered by South Florida Multispecialty Medical Group.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used to detect abnormalities like lumps, tumors, or changes in breast tissue. It’s one of the most reliable methods for early breast cancer detection, allowing doctors to spot issues long before they can be felt through physical examination.

Types of Mammograms

• Screening Mammogram: A routine test for women with no symptoms. It helps detect early signs of breast cancer.
• Diagnostic Mammogram: Conducted when an abnormality is found during a screening or when symptoms appear — such as a lump, nipple discharge, or breast pain. This test captures more detailed images for further diagnosis.

Why is Breast Screening So Important?

Early detection saves lives. Regular mammograms can reduce breast cancer mortality by 20% to 40% because they catch cancer in its early stages when it’s easiest to treat.

Spotting Cancer Early Often Means:

• Smaller, localized tumors
• Less aggressive treatments (e.g., lumpectomy versus mastectomy)
• Higher survival rates and better outcomes

Skipping screenings can lead to late-stage diagnoses that are harder to treat. That’s why South Florida Multispecialty Medical Group strongly recommends following current guidelines for mammography.

Who Should Get a Mammogram? (Screening Guidelines)

• Ages 40–49: Discuss risks and benefits with your provider to make a personalized decision.
• Ages 50–74: Regular mammograms (annually or biennially) are highly recommended.
• Age 75+: Continue based on personal health and physician advice.
• High-Risk Individuals: Those with a family history of breast cancer, BRCA1/2 gene mutations, or prior chest radiation may need earlier and more frequent screening using mammograms and breast MRI.

Types of Mammogram Technology

• 2D Mammography (Standard): Takes two X-rays of each breast to detect abnormalities.
• 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis): Captures multiple angles to form a detailed 3D image — ideal for women with dense breast tissue or increased cancer risk.

3D mammography reduces false positives and negatives, improving diagnostic accuracy. Many of our patients at SFL Medical Group prefer this option for peace of mind and increased reliability.

What Happens During a Mammogram? (The Procedure)

• Preparation: Avoid deodorants, lotions, or powders on exam day. You’ll receive a gown and remove clothing from the waist up.
• Positioning: The breast is placed on a flat plate, then gently compressed to spread tissue evenly.
• Imaging: X-rays are captured from multiple angles. Slight discomfort from compression may occur but is brief.
• Image Review: A radiologist reviews the images to assess for abnormalities or a need for further imaging.

Results are typically shared within a few days. Additional tests like ultrasound or biopsy may follow if abnormalities are detected.

What is Dense Breast Tissue?

Breasts are made of fatty, glandular, and fibrous tissue. Dense breasts contain more fibrous/glandular tissue, which can make cancer detection more difficult because both dense tissue and tumors appear white on a mammogram.

If You Have Dense Breasts, Additional Screening May Include:

• Breast Ultrasound
• Breast MRI

Several states require doctors to notify patients about dense breast tissue. At South Florida Multispecialty Medical Group, we ensure all patients are informed and guided to the best screening options.

Benefits and Risks of Mammograms

Benefits

• Early cancer detection saves lives
• Allows for less invasive treatment options
• Improves overall treatment success and survival rates

Risks

• Exposure to low-dose radiation (minimal risk)
• False positives that may cause anxiety and require biopsies
• False negatives — rare instances where cancer is missed
• Overdiagnosis of slow-growing cancers

The benefits of mammograms generally outweigh the potential risks, especially when done at appropriate intervals.

Decoding Mammogram Results — BIRADS Scale

Radiologists use the BIRADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) score to categorize mammogram results:

• BIRADS 0: Needs additional imaging
• BIRADS 1: Negative (normal)
• BIRADS 2: Benign (non-cancerous)
• BIRADS 3: Probably benign — follow-up recommended
• BIRADS 4: Suspicious — biopsy recommended
• BIRADS 5: Highly suspicious of malignancy

If You Receive an Abnormal Result

An abnormal mammogram doesn’t always mean cancer. It simply signals the need for more detailed evaluation.

Next Steps May Include:

• Additional diagnostic mammography
• Breast ultrasound
• Breast MRI (especially for high-risk patients)
• Biopsy if necessary

At SFL Medical Group, our expert healthcare team guides you with compassion and expertise through the diagnostic steps and next actions.

Beyond Mammograms: Additional Breast Screening Options

• Breast Ultrasound: Evaluates specific areas or dense tissue more closely.
• Breast MRI: Offers highly detailed imaging for women at higher risk or with dense breasts.
• Clinical Breast Exams & Self-Exams: Useful for early detection through ongoing awareness, but not a replacement for screening mammograms.