BREAST ULTRASOUND HELPS DETECT BREAST DISEASE EARLY

Breast ultrasound is an important diagnostic imaging method, commonly used in the detection and monitoring of diseases related to the breast, especially breast cancer. This is a non-invasive, safe and easy-to-perform technique, bringing high efficiency in checking breast health for women.

1. What is breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the breast, allowing doctors to see and evaluate the structure of breast tissue. Ultrasound can detect abnormalities, such as cysts, fibroids, or tumors, that are sometimes not detected by self-examination or mammography.

2. Why should I have a breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound helps detect early abnormalities and diseases of the breast, especially breast cancer - one of the most common cancers in women. Some important reasons to perform breast ultrasound include:

2.1. Detection of tumors and cysts

Breast ultrasound helps differentiate between solid and cystic (fluid-filled) masses, thereby providing an initial assessment of whether the mass is benign or malignant. For younger women with dense breast tissue, ultrasound is a very good adjunct to mammography.

2.2. Check after detecting a tumor through self-examination or mammography

When a lump or abnormality is detected during breast self-examination or mammography, an ultrasound will be ordered for further examination. Ultrasound helps determine the size, location, and nature of the lump, helping the doctor to determine the appropriate treatment.

2.3. Monitor for unusual changes in the mammary glands

Breast ultrasound is a useful tool in monitoring unusual changes in the breast, such as recurring cysts or previously detected benign tumors. Your doctor can monitor the growth and health of your breasts over time.

3. Breast ultrasound procedure

The breast ultrasound procedure is simple, quick and painless. The patient only needs to lie on his back or on one side so that the doctor can easily perform the ultrasound.

• Step 1 : The doctor will apply a layer of gel to the breast area so that the ultrasound probe can move more easily and transmit sound waves effectively.
• Step 2 : The ultrasound probe will be moved gently over the skin surface, collecting images inside the mammary glands.
• Step 3 : The image will be displayed directly on the screen, helping the doctor evaluate the breast tissue structure and detect any abnormalities.

The procedure takes only 10-15 minutes and patients can return to normal activities immediately afterwards.

4. Who should have a breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound can be performed on anyone, especially women. However, it is especially necessary for:

• Women at high risk for breast cancer , such as those with a family history of the disease, older women, or women who have had abnormal mammogram results.
• Women with unusual symptoms , such as painful swelling of the breast, the appearance of a hard lump, changes in the shape or color of the skin in the breast area, or unexplained nipple discharge.
• Women under 40 years old : For young women with dense breast tissue, breast ultrasound is considered a more effective diagnostic method than mammography.

5. Benefits of breast ultrasound

Breast ultrasound not only helps detect diseases early but also brings many other health benefits:

• Safe and non-invasive : Ultrasound does not use radiation and is harmless to the body, suitable for everyone, including pregnant women.
• Accurate in detecting tumors and cysts : This method is capable of distinguishing between solid tumors and cysts, thereby supporting more accurate diagnosis.
• Support quick diagnosis : Ultrasound results are displayed immediately, helping doctors make initial conclusions and direct appropriate treatment.

6. Conclusion

Breast ultrasound is a simple, safe and effective method in the early detection of breast diseases, especially breast cancer. To protect their breast health, women should perform regular check-ups or when there are any unusual signs. Go to reputable medical facilities for examination and specialist advice, ensuring that your health is always well controlled.