This requires a close working relationship between the interpreting radiologist and the mammography facility. A finely tuned system for communicating results and tracking follow-up care is essential. Availability of previous mammograms for comparison is vital for optimal interpretation. A patient may temporarily or permanently transfer her films to her current medical practitioner upon executing a signed release. The benefit of screening mammography for women is an opportunity to diagnose breast cancer at a more favorable stage, enhancing their survival, expanding their therapeutic options and, thereby, improving quality of life.
Some patients express a concern about radiation risk.
Modern mammography uses under 0.2 rad of radiation per exposure and data suggest that there probably is no carcinogenic risk to the breast by the time a woman is age 40. When to start screening mammography Oncology experts now agree that screening mammography should begin at age 40. Mortality reduction is one end point used to justify mammography screening. For example, consider beginning screening at age 30 if the patient's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40. Women with a history of mantle radiation for Hodgkin's disease should begin screening no later than eight years following treatment.