Sometimes people see or hear things about breast cancer screenings that aren’t true. These myths can keep women from getting the care they need. Dr. Ekaterini Tsiapali, a breast cancer surgeon with MaineHealth, helps clear up some common misunderstandings about mammograms and explains why early detection matters.
Myth: You don’t need a mammogram if no one in your family has had breast cancer.
Truth: All women should start getting mammograms at age 40, even if their relatives haven’t had breast cancer. Getting checked early helps doctors treat cancer more easily if they find it. If you’re not sure when to start, ask your primary care physician or gynecologist.
“One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, most of them without any family history,” Dr. Tsiapali says. “It is important to know your own risk.”
Myth: Mammograms hurt a lot.
Truth: Some women feel slightly uncomfortable during a mammogram, but it shouldn’t be very painful. At MaineHealth, we use advanced machines and trained staff to help make the experience as easy as possible. If you’re nervous, our team can provide tips and support to help you feel more relaxed during your screening.
Myth: You only need a mammogram if you feel a lump.
Truth: Mammograms are important even if you don’t feel anything unusual. Checking your breasts yourself is helpful and important, but it doesn’t replace a mammogram. Mammograms can detect cancer well before you notice any symptoms.
“The size of tumors found by mammograms is usually much smaller than what our fingers can feel,” Dr. Tsiapali explains. “Also our fingers can only press in so far, so tumors deep in the breast will be missed or only found when they are very large without the aid of a mammogram.”
Myth: If you eat healthy and exercise, you don’t need mammograms.
Truth: Eating well and staying active are great for your overall health, but they don’t stop breast cancer. You still need regular screenings. Mammograms help find cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.
Myth: Mammograms are only for older women.
Truth: Women should start getting mammograms every year at age 40. Breast cancer is more common as you get older, but younger women can get it too, especially if they have certain risk factors like dense breast tissue or family history. Some women may need to start earlier or get extra tests.
“At any age, if you feel a lump that persists, contact your doctor – even if you have had a mammogram recently,” Dr. Tsiapali says.
Myth: Mammograms cost too much and aren’t covered by insurance.
Truth: Most insurance plans pay for yearly mammograms. If you don’t have insurance or need help paying, the MaineHealth Access to Care program can help you find support so that cost doesn’t stop you from getting screened.
Myth: Mammograms take too long.
Truth: A mammogram usually takes 30 minutes or less. With flexible and fast appointment times, it’s easy to fit into your day.
“Getting a mammogram once a year is an excellent time investment for your overall health,” Dr. Tsiapali notes.
Myth: If you’re scared or anxious, you just have to deal with it alone.
Truth: It’s normal to feel nervous about a mammogram and you don’t have to go through it alone. Your doctor can even give you medicine to help you feel calmer and more comfortable.
Bottom Line:
Mammograms save lives. Don’t let myths or concerns stop you from taking care of your health. Talk to your doctor and schedule your screening. It’s an important step toward staying healthy.
MaineHealth is pleased to welcome Ekaterini Tsiapali, MD, to the MaineHealth Breast Care and Cancer Supportive Care team. Board-certified in general surgery and fellowship-trained in breast surgery at Women & Infants Hospital in Rhode Island, Dr. Tsiapali brings more than 15 years of experience in breast surgical oncology, oncoplastic surgery, and multidisciplinary cancer care. As part of the MaineHealth Cancer Care team, she joins the state’s largest network of cancer care providers, working collaboratively to deliver leading-edge care to patients and families across Maine.
For more information, visit mainehealth.org.
