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It’s natural to have concerns about radiation exposure when it comes to mammograms. Many people wonder: Why not just use ultrasound or MRI instead? Let’s explore why mammograms remain a vital tool despite using a small amount of radiation.

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Understanding mammogram radiation

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Yes, mammograms use radiation, but the dose is very low. A standard 4-view mammogram delivers about 0.4 mSv of radiation. To put this into perspective:

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• This is equivalent to about 7 weeks of background radiation (the natural radiation we’re exposed to daily).
• It’s also similar to the radiation from 5 round-trip cross-country flights.

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Radiation is a part of life—even the food we eat contains small amounts. The risk from mammogram radiation is theoretical and extremely low.

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The real risk vs. benefit

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Studies show that the chance of developing breast cancer from mammogram radiation is minimal. For example, if 1,000 women aged 50–69 received mammograms every two years:

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• There might be a theoretical cause of 0.27 cases of breast cancer and 0.04 related deaths.
• However, 5 lives could be saved through early detection.

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This benefit far outweighs the minimal risk, making mammograms a critical screening tool for early breast cancer detection.

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Why not Just use ultrasound or MRI?

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While ultrasound and MRI are valuable tools, they are not substitutes for mammograms. Mammograms are uniquely effective at detecting early changes like calcifications, which are often the first signs of breast cancer. These changes might not be visible on an ultrasound or MRI.

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The role of technology

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Modern mammogram machines are designed to minimize radiation exposure:

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• ALARA Principle: Practices follow "As Low As Reasonably Achievable" standards to ensure minimal radiation doses.
• Daily Quality Assurance: Mammogram machines are tested every morning to maintain optimal performance and safety.

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Conclusion

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Mammograms save lives. The small amount of radiation used is a minor risk compared to the significant benefit of early breast cancer detection. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk factors and why mammograms are an essential part of your health journey.

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