Providing peace of mind: Breast screening for early cancer detection
One in 13 women in Singapore will develop breast cancer in their lifetime [1]. It is very likely that you know someone who is living with or caring for a breast cancer patient. Regular breast screening with mammograms and/or ultrasounds is key to identifying subtle abnormalities on imaging before they manifest into advanced symptoms. Treatment of breast cancer in the early stages are associated with better outcomes with reduced morbidity and mortality rates.
Mammograms for Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Mammographic screening is the most reliable and cost-effective modality for detecting early breast cancer. It involves taking low dose x-rays of the breast tissues. Screening mammograms are done for women with no symptoms to look for early signs of breast cancer. On the other hand, diagnostic mammograms are performed to assess women with symptoms such as breast lumps, nipple discharge and/or skin changes.
Regular mammographic screening has been proven to be instrumental in reducing the risk of mortality associated with breast cancer. Mammographic screening should be performed every year for women aged between 40 and 49, and every two years for women aged 50 and above [1].
What is a 3D Mammogram?
3D mammograms (also known as digital breast tomosynthesis) involves using low-dose x-rays shot through a continuous arc to obtain multiple slices of images through the breast. These are then reconstructed into a scrollable image stack for evaluation.
3D Mammograms are More Comfortable
There are multiple advantages of 3D mammograms over standard 2D mammograms, which is why we advocate for its use in screening at Luma Women’s Imaging Centre.
- Compared to 2D mammograms, 3D mammograms offer greater diagnostic accuracy resulting in increased cancer detection. This is especially significant for women with dense breasts, which are very common in the Asian population.
- Due to our ability to scroll through a stack of layered images to differentiate between normal breast tissue and true abnormalities, 3D mammogram reduces the need to recall patients for additional imaging.
- With our Luma 3D mammogram machines, there is overall reduced radiation exposure in contrast to 2D mammogram.
- Reduced compression force is required to produce 3D mammogram images; therefore, patients experience improved comfort during the imaging process.
Ultrasound: Process and its Benefits
Breast ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses sound waves to examine the breast’s internal structures. It demonstrates high sensitivity in identifying breast abnormalities such as cysts, solid masses, abscesses and lymph nodes. Breast ultrasound is often used to supplement a mammogram in evaluation of mammographic abnormalities and/or for assessment of breast symptoms [2].
Breast Ultrasound vs Mammogram
Breast ultrasounds and mammograms are two different imaging modalities with different functions, and one does not replace the other.
Mammogram remains the gold standard in detecting early breast cancers, which commonly present as calcifications. Breast ultrasound has high sensitivity for identifying small lumps and aids in evaluation of mammographic abnormalities, but is unable to as reliably pick up calcifications.
Supplemental breast ultrasound may be considered in the following settings:
- Women with dense breasts, which are common in the Asian population. Dense breast tissues are difficult to penetrate even with x-rays and are difficult to evaluate with mammograms alone.
- Pregnant women. Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation like in mammograms, thus making it safer for the developing foetus.
- Women who are younger than age 40 with strong risk factors for breast cancer [3]. requiring an enhanced breast screening regime.
Regular Breast Screening Provides for Peace of Mind
Mammograms and breast ultrasounds play a vital role in the early detection of breast cancer and provide peace of mind for women who undergo regular screening. By combining these screening methods, women are empowered to take a proactive approach towards their breast health, ensuring that any subtle abnormalities are being appropriately investigated.
By raising awareness, promoting breast care education, and prioritising early detection and prevention efforts, we can work towards a future where breast cancers are diagnosed at an early and most treatable stage. This in turn saves lives and improves the overall well-being of women and our community.
1. Singapore Cancer Society, “Breast Cancer”
2 John Hopkins Medicine, “Breast Ultrasound”
3 Breast Cancer Detection : 3D Mammogram Better Than 2D Scan, Study Finds
