The cells in the human body speak through changes, such as modifications of their genetic material or uncontrollable growth or shrinkage. These alterations can be seen in the tissues made up by these cells—and a mammogram can detect them.

Mammograms are used as a screening test in women without symptoms and those with symptoms that could be caused by cancer.

Getting an annual mammogram is one of the actions women can take to maintain control over their bodies and medical decisions. By getting their first mammogram, women show that they want to take care of their health and, above all, prevent disease.

This procedure is quick and noninvasive. The radiologist places one breast at a time between two plates that compress and flatten the breast, then takes an X‑ray. The pressure exerted on the breast is a little uncomfortable and maybe a bit painful, but it only lasts a few seconds.

Both international and American medical organizations recommend that healthy women without a history of breast cancer should get this screening test every year starting at age 40.

Women who have a family history or genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing this cancer should speak to their doctor to determine the best strategy.

This low‑dose X‑ray:

When breast cancer is detected early, it is often easier to treat and overcome, turning the patient into a cancer survivor.

The main types of breast changes that a mammogram can detect are:

Screening mammograms can detect cancers and cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (a noninvasive tumor in which abnormal cells that may become cancerous build up in the lining of the milk ducts) that need to be treated. However, they can also detect much smaller cancers that would have never caused symptoms or put a woman’s life at risk.

This phenomenon is called “overdiagnosis,” and it can lead to “overtreatment.” That is why it is very important to discuss your mammogram results with a specialist.

Although mammograms expose the body to a tiny amount of radiation, the benefits of getting a mammogram outweigh the minimal risks of this exposure. This level of radiation is similar to the level people are normally exposed to from substances in the environment.