mammography is an x-ray examination of the breast that has the ability to detect a cancer in the breast when it is quite small long before it may be felt by breast examination. approximately 85%-90% of all breast cancers are detectable by mammography. early detection by mammography has reduced the mortality rate from breast cancer by 20%-30% in women over 50 years of age. however some 10%-15% of breast cancers are not visible on mammography but can be felt on physical examination of the breast. therefore a normal mammogram does not exclude the possibility of breast cancer. breast examination by your health-care professional by palpation and visual inspection is also important. during a routine physical checkup a doctor can conduct an examination of the breast.
what are the advantages and limitations of mammography?