Health Tip: Get the Most From Your Mammogram

Take these precautions

(HealthDay News) - A mammogram is an essential tool to protect women from newly diagnosed or recurring breast cancer.

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Here are suggested ways to get the most accurate results from a mammogram, courtesy of breastcancer.org:

• Women with dense breasts or who are under age 50 may get better results with a digital mammogram.
• Bring your last mammogram results for the radiologist to compare.
• Have more than one radiologist read your results.
• Use other imaging methods to confirm results, such as an MRI or an ultrasound.
• If your doctor has requested your mammogram for a specific reason -- not just as a precaution because of your age -- be sure the doctor provides the radiologist with specific instructions on what to look for.
• Make sure your doctor knows your family's medical history, especially as it relates to breast cancer.

-- Diana Kohnle