Early detection of breast cancer increases the chances of recovery and achieves better treatment outcomes, which positively affects the individual's life. This detection is usually done through a mammogram. Learn about mammograms, when you should start, how often, and other necessary details.


What is a Mammogram?


Mammogram is the most accurate and important examination for early detection of breast cancer. It is a device that takes light (low dose) X-ray images of the breast and can detect breast changes or tumors even in the smallest sizes. The examination is quick, safe, and painless. (1)


Early detection of breast cancer means a better chance of recovery, which may reach 99%, and more treatment options available to you. For these reasons, a mammogram is very important for you. (2)


How Accurate is the Mammogram?


Mammogram can detect even the smallest breast tumors, the size of a grain of rice, before a lump or symptoms appear. The sensitivity of the test in correctly detecting cancer is approximately 90%. (1)( 3)


When should a mammogram be performed?

It is usually recommended to have a mammogram every year or two, starting at the age of forty. However, some women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than the general population, and they are advised to start these periodic mammograms at an earlier age (starting at the age of 30). These cases include: (4)


  • A close family member diagnosed with breast cancer, such as a mother, grandmother, or sister.
  • Exposure to radiation therapy to the chest before the age of 30.
  • Having genetic mutations that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer (BRCA1 and BRCA2), which can be detected by genetic tests.
  • Having one of the conditions that increase the risk of cancer: Li-Fraumeni, Cowden, or Bannayan–Riley–Ruvalcaba syndrome, or having a close family member diagnosed with it.


How is a mammogram performed?


Here are some steps you should know about how a mammogram is performed, and how to prepare for it:


1.How to prepare for the examination?

Some useful tips for preparing for a mammogram are: (5)


  • It is best to book a mammogram a week or two after the start of your menstrual cycle, as the breasts are not sensitive during this period.
  • You can take an analgesic an hour before the examination, as you may feel slight and sometimes annoying pressure during the examination.
  • Do not apply deodorant, creams or fats to the breast, chest or under the armpit.
  • Do not wear a necklace or accessories around your neck.
  • Wear two-piece clothing, as you will be asked to remove the upper part of your clothing during the examination.


2.How to do the test


A mammogram is simple, safe and will not take more than 30 minutes. The steps include the following: (6)


  • Take off your upper clothes in a private room.
  • Stand in front of the mammogram machine, where the breast is carefully placed on the X-ray machine, then pressed for a few seconds while taking the pictures. You must be still during this to get a clear picture.
  • Two pictures are taken of each breast, one from the top of the body, and the other from the side.


3.What can you expect from the test results?

The test results appear after a day or several days, depending on the center:

  • If abnormal results appear: This does not mean that you have breast cancer, but you need to consult a doctor and conduct more investigations and follow-up to make sure. (7)
  • If your results are normal, you should continue to do a mammogram annually or every two years according to your doctor's recommendations to ensure your health. (7)


4.Where can I do a mammogram in Qatar?




Mammogram screening is available at Al-Ahli Hospital, where we have the latest and most accurate mammogram devices under the supervision of the most skilled experts, or you can have it done at the centers announced by the Ministry of Health in Qatar.




Is mammogram screening harmful?

No, the rays used are very light, about a fifth of the natural rays you are exposed to annually outdoors only. So do not believe the false rumors that claim that mammogram screening is harmful to your health. (1)



References: