Mammogram
A low-dose X-ray of the breasts that finds cancer early - often before a lump can be felt.
TypeScan · X-ray
HowEach breast is gently compressed for a few seconds while images are taken.
How oftenEvery 2 years from 40 (US guidance); yearly for some.
BeforeSkip deodorant and powder on the day.
WhoWomen 40–74; earlier or more often with high risk.
Finding breast cancer before it can be felt
A mammogram can spot small changes years before a lump. Screening lowers deaths from breast cancer - though it also finds some cancers that would never have caused harm.
Average risk
“When should I start?”
Most guidelines advise from 40, every 1–2 years.
Routine
Dense breasts
“Is a mammogram enough?”
Dense tissue can hide cancer - ultrasound or MRI may be added.
Extra imaging
Higher risk
“What if it runs in my family?”
An earlier start and MRI may be advised. Genetic testing can help.
Personal plan
Is it right for you?
Worth considering if…
- You’re a woman aged 40–74.
- You have a family history or known gene variant - you may need earlier or extra screening.
A better option if…
- You have dense breasts or high risk - ask about adding ultrasound or MRI.
- You have a lump or symptom - you need diagnostic imaging, not screening.
How it’s measured
2D / 3D mammogram
3D (tomosynthesis) may find more cancers in dense breasts.
Breast MRI
For high-risk women.
Breast ultrasound
Often added for dense breasts.
The full picture
What is it?
An X-ray screening test for breast cancer.
What type of test is it?
An imaging test.
What does it measure?
Changes in breast tissue that could be cancer.
Why might someone consider it?
To find breast cancer early.
Who is it most relevant for?
Women 40–74, earlier with risk.
How is it performed?
Breasts are compressed briefly while X-rays are taken.
How often might it be considered?
Every 1–2 years.
What can the result help you understand?
Whether further imaging is needed.
What are its limitations?
False positives and overdiagnosis; less sensitive in dense breasts.
What should it be viewed with?
Family history, genetic results and breast density.
Where to get it
Through your provider
Your primary care provider can order or refer.
Screening programmes
Many health systems offer dedicated screening.
Specialist clinics
For higher-risk or follow-up testing.
Names are examples only, not endorsements. Your provider can often order the same test - and help interpret it.
Connected to
Questions to ask your provider
- When should I start and how often?
- Do I have dense breasts?
Ziva Health
One test is a snapshot. Ziva shows the whole story.
Ziva brings your lab results, wearables and daily readings together - and Isabella tells you what’s changing and what to ask your provider next.
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Is your provider not on Ziva yet? Send them a link in under a minute - once they join, they’ll see your Mammogram result alongside your other trends and get alerts directly.
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Being listed doesn’t mean everyone needs this test. Educational only — not medical advice. Results should be interpreted with a qualified clinician. ← Back to Know What to Test