One of the biggest challenges that women in America face is Breast Cancer. Statistics show that every 1 in 8 women can be affected by it. It is, hence, time that we become aware about the issue and take preventive measures to decrease fatalities.

The Mammography test is the diagnostic investigation to determine abnormalities and cancers of the breast. The procedure is simple, where each breast of the woman is subjected to x-rays successively and radiation images are generated. First the breast-tissues are flattened by the help of a compressor which exerts pressure on the mammary glands. The lady will hold her breath while the visuals are captured from various angles. This imaging methodology uses a very low quantity of x-rays for determination and hence, this is a safe procedure. The procedure is fairly painless except for slight discomfort caused by the cold metal plate placed on the chest.

Besides checking for signs of cancers and tumors, mammography can also be done for determination of other breast diseases like lumps, nipple discharge, breast-dimples and pain. When the focus is on the milk ducts of the breast, the method is slightly more specialized, called Ductal Carcinoma in situ (DCIS). It is extremely powerful and can help detect even small amounts of abnormal tissues in the organ. Abnormal findings in a mammogram are examined by the radiologist. The individual may need to undergo further processes to determine the type of tumor. A benign tumor if indicated can be treated surgically and removed from the affected area. On the other hand, a malignant tumor or calcification of tissues is carcinogenic or cancerous. The treatment will include methods like chemotherapy which are used for treating cancers.

Medical professionals from across the world have advocated regular Mammography Tests for ladies over the age of 40 years. However there is the ongoing debate about its needs and ill-effects on the body. According to latest norms a lady above 50 years of age should get the detection done regularly - every two years - but it is not mandatory for younger women. Nevertheless, irrespective of traditional recommendations, one should be alert and should get the assessment done when need be. Early detection can help avail more treatment options and a higher degree of success.

Latest technology in this field is Digital Mammography. This is a computer-initiated screening which is relatively new and less-known. However, with the developments in the industry, almost every day sees the creation of new ideas, scientific research, medical products, advanced medical instruments and much more. It is no doubt that we are moving towards a healthier world and a better tomorrow.

Mammography takes various forms such as digital mammography, Computer-aided detection, screening mammography and diagnostic mammography.

There are several uses of mammography. The technique helps in detecting the small abnormal tissue growths which are limited to milk ducts present in the breasts. This procedure is referred to as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). While the tumors are small, more treatment options are available to women. Therefore, the chances of getting cured are higher. Moreover, the early stage tumors do not harm the patients if the removal takes place during this stage. Mammography remains the only verified method which enables the detection of tumors. Moreover, it is also useful for detection of all kinds of breast cancers, incorporating invasive lobular and invasive ductal cancer.

Owing to a number of uses of mammography and the associated benefits, it is advisable to get a breast check-up done at the earliest. This is also helpful for prevention of breast cancer during the later stages. By conducting mammography, a doctor is able to look closely at the breast lumps as well as the changes which take place in the breast tissue. Moreover, mammography is able to show small growths or lumps which a doctor is not able to feel during a clinical breast examination. Ideally, mammography remains the best screening tool available with the doctors.