IN PHOTOS: Why mammography is an essential test for women

Breast cancer is a formidable adversary, affecting millions of women worldwide and causing substantial suffering and loss of life. However, there is a beacon of hope in the fight against this disease -- early detection through mammography

Updated On: 2023-10-23 04:49 PM IST

Compiled by : Editor

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Breast cancer, like many other forms of cancer, is most effectively treated when detected at an early stage. Mammography, a specialised X-ray of the breast, plays a crucial role in this process by identifying abnormalities that may not be noticeable through physical examination alone

Improved survival rates: When breast cancer is detected at an early, localised stage, the five-year survival rate is significantly higher than when it is diagnosed at a more advanced stage. Early detection provides women with a greater chance of successful treatment and long-term survival

Less aggressive treatment: Early-stage breast cancer often requires less aggressive treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy, minimising the physical and emotional toll on patients. In contrast, advanced-stage breast cancer may necessitate more extensive treatments, which can be more taxing and have a higher risk of complications

Better quality of life: Early detection can lead to smaller tumor sizes, making breast-conserving surgery (such as lumpectomy) a viable option for many women. This results in better cosmetic outcomes and improved quality of life, as it preserves the natural appearance of the breast

Lower healthcare costs: The cost of treating advanced-stage breast cancer is substantially higher than treating early-stage disease. Early detection through mammography can reduce healthcare expenditures by preventing the need for more expensive and prolonged treatments

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