What is the standard method for breast cancer diagnosis?

Mammography is considered the standard method for breast cancer diagnosis primarily due to its ability to detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before a lump can be physically felt. This form of imaging uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed pictures of the breast tissue, allowing healthcare providers to identify abnormal growths or changes that could indicate malignancy.

The importance of mammography lies in its role in screening and early detection, which can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes for patients. By identifying cancers at an earlier stage, mammography helps reduce breast cancer mortality rates.

While physical examination, CT scans, and ultrasound are valuable tools in the assessment and management of breast conditions, they do not replace the efficacy of mammography as a screening tool. Physical examinations can sometimes identify palpable masses, but they lack the sensitivity to detect cancers that mammograms can find. CT scans are typically not used for routine breast cancer screening and are more appropriate in staging known cancers or assessing for metastasis. Ultrasound can be helpful in evaluating specific breast abnormalities and can be used as a supplemental tool, particularly in women with dense breast tissue, but it is not the primary screening method for breast cancer.