Which Breast Tests Are Best?

Mammograms are the gold standard, but there's news about digital scans and other options to ponder

Early detection is key to beating breast cancer. Consider this: the survival rate five years after treating a Stage I tumor (one that hasn't spread at all) is 98%, while the five-year survival rates for Stages III and IV are about 50% and 16%, respectively. While no method of detection is perfect, there are more options available now than ever before. And don't forget the monthly self-exam.

•Mammography The gold standard in breast screening comes in two varieties: screen-film mammography (SFM) and the newer full-field digital mammography (FFDM). Both use low-dose X rays to create two views of each breast....

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