What method is used for early detection of breast cancer?

Mammography is the preferred method for the early detection of breast cancer. This screening technique uses low-energy X-rays to examine the human breast and is specifically designed to detect tumors that may be too small to feel during a physical examination. Regular mammograms can help identify breast cancer at an earlier stage when treatment is more likely to be successful.

The importance of mammography is supported by numerous studies demonstrating its efficacy in reducing mortality from breast cancer among women who undergo regular screenings, especially those over the age of 40. The procedure typically involves two X-ray images of each breast, which allow radiologists to identify abnormalities such as calcifications or masses that may require further investigation.

While other methods, such as ultrasound, biopsy, and CT scans, play crucial roles in the diagnosis and management of breast cancer, they are not primarily used for screening. Ultrasound can be helpful in evaluating specific findings seen on a mammogram or in assessing breast lumps, while a biopsy is necessary to confirm a diagnosis when abnormalities are detected. CT scans are utilized predominantly for staging and assessing the extent of cancer rather than for initial detection.