Mammogram

X-Ray, Breast (Mammography)

Risks

There is always a slight risk of damage to cells or tissue from being exposed to any radiation, including the very low levels of radiation used for this test. However, the risk of damage from the X-rays is very low compared with the potential benefits of the test.


Go to previous sectionGo to previous sectionGo to top of pageGo to top of pageGo to next sectionGo to next section

Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BSLast Updated: April 11, 2007
Medical Review: Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

Click here to learn about Healthwise
Click here to learn about Healthwise
Topic Contents
 Test Overview
 Why It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
Arrow PointerRisks
 Results
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits