What is a common screening method for breast cancer?

Mammography is the most widely recognized and utilized screening method for breast cancer. This imaging technique uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue, which can help detect tumors or abnormalities before they become palpable or cause symptoms. Mammograms are specifically designed for breast tissue and are effective at identifying breast cancer, often allowing for earlier detection when the disease is more treatable.

Screening mammography is recommended for women of certain age groups and risk factors, as it has been shown to reduce mortality from breast cancer. In contrast, while ultrasound can be used as an adjunct to mammography, particularly in women with dense breast tissue, it is not typically used as a standalone screening tool. CT scans are more often used for evaluating the staging of breast cancer rather than for initial screening. A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to confirm the presence of cancer after an abnormal finding has been identified through imaging techniques, rather than being a screening method in itself.