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Why are low-energy X-rays so critical for mammography? What's the science behind this?
Mammography is the process of examining women's breasts using low-energy X-rays, with the primary purpose of detecting breast cancer early. According to the report, this examination specifically focuses on detecting abnormalities such as characteristic lumps, microcalcifications, symmetry and shape distortion in the breast. Low-energy X-rays play an integral role in this process.
Mammography uses relatively low X-ray energy to make images clearer and can effectively identify small lesions in the breast.
Advantages of low-energy X-rays
Using low-energy X-rays, such as X-rays produced by molybdenum (Mo) and aluminum (Rh), can more effectively distinguish between normal and abnormal breast tissue. Compared with ordinary X-rays, low-energy X-rays have a better energy range, thereby increasing the sensitivity of detecting lesions. Its main benefit is that it can reduce the radiation dose received by the patient while providing sufficient image quality for medical judgment.
Advancing technology in mammography
With the development of science and technology, various mammography technologies are constantly being improved, such as digital mammography and 3D mammography. These new technologies not only improve screening accuracy, but also show obvious advantages in terms of exposure dose.
Digital mammography allows doctors to more flexibly manipulate images on a computer, thereby improving image clarity.
The importance of getting screened
According to the American Cancer Society, 460,000 women die from breast cancer each year, and screening can help reduce that number. Early screening and timely treatment are effective ways to reduce breast cancer mortality. Experts suggest that women should start receiving regular mammograms at the age of 40. In addition to helping to detect cancer early, it is also very helpful in reducing future health risks.
Potential risks and challenges
Although low-energy X-rays offer significant advantages in mammography, there are potential risks associated with radiation exposure that need to be noted. According to research, women over the age of 40 are relatively less likely to be at higher risk from radiation when undergoing the test. However, for younger women, radiation risks remain, and some women experience discomfort or pain during mammography, which may affect their willingness to participate in screening.
Reports of pain during mammography examinations range widely, and many women experience discomfort during the examination, which to some extent may influence future screening intentions.
Global screening recommendations
According to recommendations from health agencies in many countries, women of all types should undergo mammography based on their age and health status. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening every two years starting at age 40, while agencies in other countries, such as Canada and Europe, recommend testing every two to three years between ages 50 and 69.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of science and technology, the technology of mammography is also constantly evolving. The disease continues to emerge with more precise imaging, new irradiation techniques, and better screening programs. These advances will not only improve the early detection rate of breast cancer, but also herald new challenges that women may face in health screening in the future.
The importance of low-energy X-rays for mammography cannot be ignored. It is not only a technology, but also an important work related to human life. In the face of future challenges and innovations, can we make better use of these technologies to reduce the health risks of breast cancer?
