Worried About Mammograms? Here’s Why Early Detection Is Worth It

For many women, the thought of having a mammogram can create anxiety. Concerns about discomfort, radiation, or the chance of needing additional imaging can make it tempting to delay scheduling this critical preventive test. But as Dr. Marina Feldman, breast imaging physician with The Elliot Breast Health Center explains, mammograms are one of the most important steps women can take to protect their health.

Do I Need a Mammogram If Breast Cancer Doesn’t Run in My Family?

“Some genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, are inherited,” says Dr. Feldman. “But many changes that lead to cancer are sporadic; they happen spontaneously, without a family link. That’s why waiting until symptoms appear often means catching cancer later, when it may be harder to treat.”

According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women (13.1%) in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during her lifetime. Most will have no family history.

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history. That’s why screening is so critical for everyone.
Dr. Marina Feldman

For women who do have a strong family history or other risk factors, genetic testing can provide valuable insight. At The Elliot Breast Health Center, patients benefit from a unique multidisciplinary approach; breast radiologists, surgeons, nurse practitioners, and genetic educators all work together under one roof. This team-based model distinguishes The Elliot Breast Health Center from other breast health centers in New Hampshire.

When Should I Start Screening?

The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40 for women at average risk (ACS Guidelines). Women at higher risk, such as those with a strong family history, certain genetic mutations, or a history of chest radiation, may benefit from starting earlier or adding supplemental imaging like MRI.

“Screening recommendations can vary depending on your individual risk factors,” says Dr. Feldman. “That’s why it’s so important to talk with your provider about your personal and family history so we can create the right plan for you.”

Is a Mammogram Painful?

“Many women say they avoid mammograms due to discomfort,” says Dr. Feldman. “There is some pressure, but the procedure lasts only a few minutes. The discomfort is temporary, while the benefits are long-term.”

She compares mammograms to other brief but important screenings: “It’s like a dental cleaning. No one enjoys it, but it’s essential for your health.”

At The Elliot, experienced technologists are trained to make the process as gentle and supportive as possible.

Should I Worry About Radiation from a Mammogram?

Radiation exposure is a common concern, but Dr. Feldman offers perspective, “The amount of radiation from a mammogram is less than what you’re exposed to on a round-trip flight across the country. It’s just a fraction of what you’d get from a chest X-ray.” 

The National Cancer Institute confirms that the average radiation dose from a mammogram is extremely low and well within safety guidelines.

“At Elliot, our equipment is tested every single day to make sure it’s calibrated correctly and safe,” Dr. Feldman adds. “We’re also routinely audited by the FDA and other agencies. The dose is so low that the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks.”

How Common Are Mammogram Call-Backs?

Perhaps the biggest source of anxiety is the possibility of being called back after a screening.

“Everyone assumes the worst when they get that phone call,” says Dr. Feldman. “But the truth is, callbacks are common — and most of the time, they don’t mean cancer.”

• Nationwide, about 10% of women are called back for additional imaging after a screening (CDC).
• Out of 1,000 women screened, about 100 may be asked to return — yet only 3 to 4 will actually be diagnosed with breast cancer (Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium).

“When you return for a diagnostic mammogram, we may take extra pictures or do an ultrasound,” Dr. Feldman explains. “A breast radiologist reviews the images right away and then meets with you face-to-face. Most women leave with reassurance that everything is fine.”

Do I Need to Worry If My Doctor Recommends a Biopsy?

Hearing the word biopsy can be alarming, but it doesn’t always mean cancer.

“If we see something that doesn’t look clearly benign, we may recommend a biopsy,” says Dr. Feldman. “That doesn’t mean it’s cancer - it just means we need a tissue diagnosis to be sure.”

In fact, 70–80% of breast biopsies are benign (BCSC).

Seventy to eighty percent of biopsies are not cancer. If it is cancer, finding it early makes it easier to treat.
Dr. Marina Feldman

At The Elliot, biopsies are managed by a dedicated interventions team of radiologists, nurses, and technologists. When a biopsy is recommended, the radiologist explains the procedure in detail at the time of recommendation. On the day of the procedure, patients meet with a radiologist again for review and reassurance. The team follows up with a phone call the next day to check on recovery, and once results are available, another call is made to share findings and outline the next steps in care.

How Can I Lower My Risk and Protect My Breast Health?

While mammograms are the most effective screening tool, lifestyle choices also matter.

“Eat a healthy diet, stay active, limit alcohol, and don’t smoke,” says Dr. Feldman. “And of course, keep up with regular screenings and self-breast exams. That’s what we should be doing for our health overall — not just for our breast health.”

The Bottom Line

Mammograms can cause anxiety, but knowing the facts helps put fears into perspective:

• Most call-backs are because more information is needed, not cancer.
• Most biopsy outcomes are benign.
• The benefits of early detection far outweigh temporary discomfort or minimal radiation risk.

As Dr. Feldman emphasizes: “The most important thing is that you come in. Whatever the outcome, you’ll be supported every step of the way by a team that’s here to rally around you.”

Ready to take charge of your health? Schedule your mammogram today with The Elliot Breast Health Center.