Health Tip: Get the Most From Your Mammogram

Take these precautions

Posted 12/5/07

(HealthDay News) - A mammogram is an essential tool to protect women from newly diagnosed or recurring breast cancer.

Here are suggested ways to get the most accurate results from a mammogram, courtesy of breastcancer.org:

Women with dense breasts or who are under age 50 may get better results with a digital mammogram.
Bring your last mammogram results for the radiologist to compare.
Have more than one radiologist read your results.
Use other imaging methods to confirm results, such as an MRI or an ultrasound.
If your doctor has requested your mammogram for a specific reason -- not just as a precaution because of your age -- be sure the doctor provides the radiologist with specific instructions on what to look for.
Make sure your doctor knows your family's medical history, especially as it relates to breast cancer.