What is breast cancer screening?
Breast cancer screening means having regular checks — a clinical exam, mammography, and sometimes ultrasound — to look for early signs of breast cancer, often before it can be felt as a lump or causes any symptoms.
Who should be screened, and when?
Screening guidelines vary depending on personal and family risk factors. Many recommend regular mammography starting somewhere between ages 40 and 50 for women at average risk, with earlier or more frequent screening for those with a family history or other risk factors. Ask Dr. Chandak for a recommendation suited to your personal history.
What does screening involve?
- Mammography — the main screening tool, using low-dose X-ray
- Sono-mammography — often used alongside mammography, especially for women with dense breast tissue
- Biopsy or FNAC — used if something found on screening needs further evaluation
Why does screening matter?
Finding changes early, before symptoms appear, generally means more treatment options are available. Screening doesn't prevent breast cancer, but it gives the best chance of catching it at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Frequently asked questions
This depends on your personal and family risk factors. Many guidelines suggest starting between ages 40 and 50 for average risk, but ask Dr. Chandak for guidance specific to you.
This also depends on your risk profile and previous results. Dr. Chandak can recommend an interval suited to you.
A mammogram involves brief compression that some find uncomfortable but not usually painful. Sono-mammography involves no compression at all.
Yes. A family history of breast cancer may mean earlier or more frequent screening is recommended. Discuss your family history with Dr. Chandak.