Mammography has become the most cost-effective tool available for the early detection of breast cancer,
for the monitoring of benign lesions or post-operative changes.
Although mammography is a widespread diagnostic method,
it has not been exempt from criticism by detractors who question its efficiency,
as well as the exposure to ionizing radiation implied in each test performed.
Regarding efficiency,
we can say that we have not yet found a method that surpasses mammography in reducing breast cancer mortality.
Regarding radiation exposure and its’ association with other pathologies such as thyroid cancer,
recent controversies have been greatly commented and disclosed on social networks.
In order to clear out false information without scientific basis on this subject,
staff must be trained to answer patients’ inquiries assertively,
therefore acting as educators for the general population.
The technical staff,
who is in direct contact with patients,
is responsible for clarifying doubts,
reassuring and containing them regarding their uncertainties.
The use of the thyroid protector,
highly demanded by patients due to internet campaigns,
hinders breast positioning in most cases.
Technicians’ should be able to explain the uselessness of its employment during a mammographic exam.
The medical staff must be the last resort in cases when patients remain incredulous to technicians’ explanations.
They are responsible for training and updating non-medical staff,
as well as making sure that the dosage used is being optimized,
taking into consideration adequate compression and positioning of the patient.
They are also responsible for alerting technicians when they perceive faults that diminish mammographic images’ quality.
Any variation in mammographic parameters that could affect the diagnostic quality of this exam should be immediately fixed and patients must be reassured in such cases,
especially when they seem hesitant about performing the examination.
From all the above,
it is inferred that the primary goal is to secure permanent training and updating for every physician,
every member of the technical and administrative staff,
so as to grant the best patient care and transmit information regarding radiological security to the community.
Our main goal was to develop a source of information on radiation issues for patients and an educational programme in radiation protection in order to counteract the misinformation displayed and widespread throughout social media.