Have you ever wondered what happens when you have a mammogram? Does it hurt? Can women of all ages have one? Can you have a mammogram if you have breast implants?
If you want to learn more about all things related to mammograms, breast ultrasounds and breast screening, then this is definitely worth a listen.
In this podcast episode, I have a conversation with Dawn McDonald, who works as a consultant radiographer. Dawn has been in this field for many years, and in this episode we dive deep into the world of breast imaging.
Mammograms can be tricky. Tricky to have that is, and tricky to interpret. However, Dawn dispels myths surrounding mammograms. She explains reasons why only women above a certain age would benefit from having them. The differences between breast densities and the challenges that can pose in interpreting mammograms. She also describes what she looks for when she reads a mammogram, from trying to identify very small clusters of microcalcifications to cystic and solid lesions.
We also talk about the differences between mammograms and ultrasound scans, and how these two different imaging modalities complement each other when examining the breast.
Towards the end of the conversation, we also discuss the breast screening program, who it is targeted towards, and what to expect if you get asked to come in if an abnormality is found. The pandemic has hit all health services hard, including the breast cancer screening program. We discuss how it has impacted the service, and where we are now.
It was a great conversation and I hope you enjoy it.
Resources mentioned:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/breast-screening-programme-overview#target-population
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If you want to learn more about how to do a breast examination, check out this podcast episode here.
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