How are X-rays used in mammography?

X-rays are used in mammography to create images of the breast tissue for early detection of breast cancer.

Mammography is a medical imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to create images of the breast tissue. It is used to detect breast cancer at an early stage, before any symptoms are present. The X-rays are produced by an X-ray generator and directed towards the breast tissue. The breast is compressed between two plates to spread out the tissue and reduce the amount of radiation needed to produce an image.

The X-rays pass through the breast tissue and are absorbed differently by different types of tissue. Dense tissue, such as breast tissue, absorbs more X-rays than fatty tissue, which appears darker on the mammogram. Cancerous tissue also absorbs more X-rays than healthy tissue, which can appear as a white spot on the mammogram.

The images produced by mammography are examined by a radiologist who looks for any abnormalities or changes in the breast tissue. If an abnormality is found, further tests may be needed to determine if it is cancerous or not.

Mammography is an important tool in the early detection of breast cancer and can help to save lives. It is recommended that women over the age of 50 have a mammogram every two years, and those with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screening at an earlier age.