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A new study finds that breast positioning is key when detecting breast cancer with mammography. Researchers evaluated several factors including
positioning, breast compression, contrast, and exposure, and found that positioning most
directly affects the overall image quality, and therefore the detection of breast cancer,
on a mammogram. In the study, physicians were significantly more likely to miss breast
cancer on a mammogram image if the breast was improperly or poorly positioned during the
exam. Experts say the study underscores the need for good communication and cooperation
between patients and mammography technologists to help ensure a high-quality mammogram.
Mammography is a special type of x-ray imaging that uses low dose x-rays with high
contrast to create detailed images of the breast. Recently, there has been much debate
about the benefits of mammography in helping to prevent breast cancer deaths. However,
after careful review of research data from the past several years, U.S. government health
officials have concluded that mammography is beneficial at intervals of every one to two
years for women in their forties and every year for women 50 years of age and older.
The study, led by Dr. Stephen H. Taplin of the Center for Health Studies at the Group
Health Cooperative, evaluated the relationship between mammogram image quality among 656
women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer within two years of having a mammogram. In
492 of the cases, breast cancer was first detected by screening mammography while in 164
of the cases, the cancer was detected by other means, such as a physical breast exam.
According to Dr. Taplin and his colleagues, breast cancer was most likely to be
detected among the women whose breasts were correctly positioned during mammography. In
such cases, 84% of breast cancers were found by screening mammography. However,
approximately one-third of the women in the study had poor breast positioning. In these
cases, the accuracy of breast cancer detection with mammography dropped to 66.3%. Thus,
the researchers conclude that "invasive breast cancer detection by mammography may be
improved through attention to correct positioning."
Correct breast positioning during mammography is dependent upon both the mammography
technologist and the patient. While the technologist positions each breast in preparation
for the mammogram, some women lean back during the exam because the compression of the
breast is uncomfortable. According to Dr. Taplin, it is important for women to lean
forward during the mammogram so that the maximum amount of breast tissue can be imaged.
In an accompanying editorial in the American Journal of Roentgenology, Stephen
A. Feig. MD of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York applauds the study and
encourages U.S. radiology practices to concentrate on proper image quality to help
increase the number of cancers detected with mammography. Digital
mammography, a recent advance in medical imaging, shows potential for helping to
improve mammogram image quality.
Because mammography cannot detect 100% of breast cancers, women 40 years of age and
older should also receive yearly physician-performed clinical
breast exams and practice monthly breast self-exams.
Mammography is not usually recommended for women younger than age 40 except in special
circumstances; however, these women should still receive physical breast exams and perform
monthly breast self-exams.
Additional Resources and References
- The study, "Screening Mammography: Clinical Image Quality and the Risk of Interval
Breast Cancer," is published in the April 2002 issue of American Journal of
Roentgenology, http://www.ajronline.org/
- The March 27, 2002 HealthScoutNews report by Serena Gordon is entitled,
"Breast Position Crucial in Mammograms."
- The March 27, 2002 Reuters Health report, "Correct Position Helps Mammogram
Detect Cancer," is available within 30 days of publication at http://www.reutershealth.com
- The March 7, 2002 Imaginis report, "Cancer Panel Says Mammography May Not Prevent
Breast Cancer Deaths, U.S. Government Adhere to Screening Guidelines," is available
at http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/news/news3.07.02.asp
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