The doctor named the indications for mandatory mammography

Ekaterina Prokhorova, a radiologist and Candidate of medical Sciences, told us in which cases mammography is absolutely necessary, and when ultrasound can be dispensed with.

In conversation with aif.ru On Thursday, July 23, she noted that mammography and ultrasound do not replace, but complement each other. Mammography reveals microcalcifications, one of the earliest signs of breast cancer, which can appear one to two years before the tumor is detected.

The expert noted that mammography is mandatory for women over 40 years of age and should be performed annually. The study is also prescribed during menopause, if ductal cancer is suspected, and for monitoring after cancer treatment. At the same time, modern digital mammographs provide minimal radiation exposure and allow performing tomosynthesis, a layered examination of the breast.

Ultrasound, according to Prokhorova, is better suited for women under 35-40 years of age with dense breast tissue, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition, this method helps to distinguish a cyst from a tumor and is used to examine a specific area if there is pain or a lump.

The doctor stressed that after 40 years of age, you can not replace mammography with ultrasound alone. At this age, ultrasound is only an addition, since it may not detect some forms of cancer. Both methods are also used for breast biopsies.

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The day before, the Ministry of Health of the Moscow region recalled the possibility of self-registration for mammography. Modern equipment helps diagnose not only malignant tumors, but also cysts and benign neoplasms. 360.ru .

Ilya Balanin, Chairman of the Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund, said on July 17 that doctors in Russia will be able to use artificial intelligence to perform various tests. This will help improve diagnostic accuracy, NSN notes.

In June, internist Galina Volkova said that after the age of 40, everyone should regularly check their heart and blood vessels, sugar levels, and undergo cancer screening based on age and gender. According to her, from the age of 40, women need to have mammograms every year, and cervical cancer screening every five years, RT notes.

In February, oncologist-mammologist Anna Tregubova said that women need to inspect their underwear monthly for spots in the nipple area and evaluate breast symmetry, shape, skin color, and possible contractions in order not to miss the alarm signals.