Mammogram Myth Busting

With so much information available online, it’s tough to know where to turn for factual and accurate information. These myths continue to perpetuate online, so let’s bust them once and for all.

Myth 1: Only Women Over 40 Can Get Mammograms

While the standard prevention protocol for breast cancer and early detection says that women over 40 should get an annual mammogram, women under 40 often need a mammogram if they have a family history of breast cancer, detect a lump, have the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 gene, or have other concerning risks.

Myth 2: Mammogram Radiation Is Unsafe

The incredibly small amount of radiation used to perform a mammogram makes it safe. In fact, skipping your mammogram is far less safe than the small amount of radiation you are exposed to during the mammogram.

Myth 3: 3D Mammograms Are the Same as Regular Mammograms

At PURE Mammography, all women receive a 3D mammogram, which is more likely to get it right the first time. 3D mammograms have greater accuracy and reduce the chance of being called back for additional testing by as much as 40%.

Myth 4: I Don’t Need a Mammogram If I Have No Symptoms

If you wait until you have breast cancer symptoms to get a mammogram, you’ve waited too long and put your life at risk. Mammograms can detect cancer before you can feel the lump. It is a preventative diagnostic tool that should be employed to catch cancers you can’t.

Mammograms save lives but sifting through information to determine what’s accurate can be difficult. Whether you’re over 40 or under, feel a lump or don’t, have a family history of breast cancer or have no other breast cancer history for generations, getting a regular mammogram is the best way to catch breast cancer early enough to make a full recovery.

Mammograms are the single best tool to find breast cancer at its earliest stages — long before you or your doctor can feel a lump. Having regular 3D mammograms performed by an experienced board-certified breast imaging specialist is the best way to detect abnormalities early.

Visit PURE Mammography on Long Island today with no appointment necessary. You can also call 631-652-3424 or fill out the form on this page to learn more about PURE or to pre-schedule an appointment.