top of page

Dispelling the Myth: Do Mammograms Cause Cancer?

acutler12


When it comes to mammograms, one of the most persistent myths is the idea that the radiation exposure from these screenings can cause cancer. This concern, while understandable, often leads to unnecessary fear and avoidance of a vital preventive health screening. Let’s break down the facts and dispel this myth once and for all.


The information below provides some technical information, but also consider that “timing” plays a role in people’s perceptions. That is, many women are diagnosed with breast cancer after a mammogram. This does not mean the mammogram caused the cancer, but rather, identified the cancer that was already developing. 


Understanding Mammograms and Radiation

Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue. The primary purpose of this screening is to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms develop, when it is most treatable. Like any imaging technique that uses X-rays, mammograms do involve exposure to radiation. However, the amount of radiation is minimal and strictly regulated to ensure patient and provider safety.


How Much Radiation Is Involved?

To put things into perspective, the dose of radiation from a standard mammogram is approximately 0.4 millisieverts (mSv). This is equivalent to the natural background radiation a person is exposed to over about seven weeks from everyday sources like the sun, soil, and even some foods.


For comparison:

  • A single chest X-ray exposes a person to about 0.1 mSv.

  • A cross-country flight exposes passengers to roughly 0.05 mSv due to increased cosmic radiation at high altitudes. In terms of radiation exposure, one mammogram is equivalent to taking eight cross-country flights.

  • Smoking a cigarette exposes a person to about 0.01 mSv. In terms of radiation exposure one mammogram is equivalent to smoking 40 cigarettes. 





Debunking the Myth


1. Radiation from Mammograms Is Too Low to Cause Cancer

Scientific research has consistently shown that the radiation from mammograms is not significant enough to increase cancer risk. The American Cancer Society and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emphasize that the benefits of detecting breast cancer early far outweigh the negligible risk posed by radiation exposure.


2. Regulations Ensure Safety

Modern mammography equipment is designed to minimize radiation exposure while providing high-quality images. In fact, the instrument selected by The Boob Bus, the GE Healthcare Senographe Pristina, provides the same radiation dose as a 2D system, which is the lowest dose of 3D instruments approved by the FDA. In addition, our mammogram technicians wear devices daily that measure radiation exposure, and each year our equipment is assessed by a medical physicist to ensure safety of the clients, staff, and community.


3. Studies Support Mammogram Safety

Extensive studies have analyzed the long-term effects of mammography. According to the National Cancer Institute, the risk of harm from radiation exposure during routine mammograms is extremely low, especially when balanced against the life-saving potential of early cancer detection.


The Real Risk is Delayed Detection

Avoiding mammograms due to fear of radiation can have serious consequences. Breast cancer detected at an early stage has a much higher survival rate compared to cancer diagnosed at a later stage. Skipping regular screenings increases the likelihood of discovering cancer only when it has progressed, requiring more aggressive treatment and reducing optimal outcomes.


If you have concerns about mammograms or radiation, speak with your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized guidance and help you make informed decisions about your breast health. Remember, knowledge is power—and when it comes to breast cancer, early detection is key!


10 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page