Why Mammography Matters: Early Detection Saves Lives

One of the most prevalent cancers among women worldwide and India, of course, is no exception - is breast cancer. As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer has now surpassed cervical cancer as the most important cause of cancer fatalities in women in the country. 

The actual worry is that most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, when treatment is more complex and survival rates are lower. This is the very reason that frequent screening via mammography is of such importance. Early detection can indeed save lives, providing women with a greater probability of timely treatment and recovery.

Zena Women's Diagnostic Centre is a notable name when it comes to mammography test centre in Delhi. Here, women enjoy access to state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment in a women-centered, safe, and comfortable environment. But first, let us see what mammography actually is and why it constitutes an important part of women's medical care.

What is Mammography?

Mammography is a medical imaging test that employs low-dose X-rays to take detailed pictures of the breast. While regular chest X-rays can't detect very small lumps, calcifications, or abnormalities in breast tissue until they're palpable during a physical exam, a mammogram can find them much earlier. In other words, it serves as an early warning system for breast cancer.

Physicians globally prescribe mammograms as a gold-standard screening procedure, particularly for women over 40, or earlier for women having a family history of breast cancer.

Why Mammography Matters 

India has a specific problem when it comes to detecting breast cancer. Most of the time, women are reluctant to visit for regular check-ups. The reason is often thought to be social stigma, unawareness, or fear. For that reason, most cases get worse to Stage 3 or Stage 4 at the time of diagnosis, with fewer and more invasive treatment options.

Data Point - Survival rates of breast cancer in India are approximately 60%, while those in nations with high early detection are 80–85%.

Urban vs Rural Divide - Urban females can be better equipped with diagnostic centers, whereas rural regions continue to lack awareness and infrastructure.

Changing Lifestyle Factors - Sedentary lifestyle, eating habits, late pregnancy, and hormonal alterations have all helped increase cases of breast cancer among Indian women.

Mammography screening on a regular basis bridges this gap by identifying issues at an early stage, and this enables simpler treatments with considerably higher survival rates.

Advantages of Mammography

1. Detection of Breast Cancer at an Early Stage

Abnormalities can be detected by mammograms years before a lump is physically detectable. This means early treatment and far improved chances of recovery.

2. Improved Outcomes for Treatment

Early diagnosis of breast cancer often means it can be treated with less intensive treatments, even skipping chemotherapy or major surgery in some cases.

3. Guilt-Free Peace of Mind

For most women, the clear result of a mammogram gives them peace of mind and confidence concerning their well-being, alleviating anxiety.

4. Identifying Non-Cancerous Illnesses

Mammography also identifies benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as cysts or fibroadenomas, so they can be effectively monitored and managed.

When Should Women Have a Mammogram?

Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram every 1–2 years.

Women who have a family history of breast cancer might need to start screening earlier, this is the best way to diagnose. 

If there are any symptoms such as lumps, unusual discharge, or changes in the breast’s shape, it’s essential to get screened immediately. This is important regardless of age.

Zena Women’s Diagnostic Centre: A Trusted Choice

Selecting an appropriate clinic for screening is as crucial as the test itself. 

Where care is provided at Zena, a female diagnostic centre in Greater Kailash, women are treated in a patient-friendly environment to ensure they feel relaxed and safe. With state-of-the-art imaging technology and experienced radiologists on board, Zena promises the right results with least discomfort.