Mammograms are X-rays of breast tissue used for early detection of breast cancer. While it's rare for vigorous exercise to cause an abnormal mammogram, there are some exercise considerations to keep in mind before going in for a mammogram, according to Dr. Carol Lee, a diagnostic radiologist and chair of the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Commission.
Mammograms
According to the National Cancer Institute, mammograms check for breast cancer in women with no signs or symptoms of the disease. "Mammograms can detect 80 to 90 percent of breast cancers, even those too tiny to be felt with a breast self exam or clinical breast exam," Lee says. The NCI recommends that women 40 and older have a screening mammogram every one to two years. Studies show these screenings help reduce deaths from breast cancer in women ages 40 to 74, the NCI says. Mammograms are available at hospitals, breast clinics, mobile vans, private radiology offices and doctor's offices.
Abnormal Results
The NCI says breast cancer tumors show up as white areas on a mammogram, while normal fatty breast tissue appears dark. Some women have benign cysts or harmless mineral deposits in their breast tissue, which can cause falsely positive results. This type of abnormal mammogram is known as a false positive. The NCI says false positives are more likely for younger women, those who have had previous breast biopsies, women with a family history of breast cancer, and women who are taking hormone therapy. Applying body lotion, talcum powder or antiperspirant to the underarm or breast area on the day of a mammogram can also cause abnormal results.
Exercise Considerations
Vigorous exercise that causes injury or trauma could potentially lead to scar tissue showing up on a mammogram as a false positive. While Lee notes it would be highly unusual for exercise or a fitness activity to lead to an abnormal mammogram, she advises avoiding playing sports and doing exercises that could cause trauma to the breasts, such as a fall or being hit in the breasts. Women with large breasts should wear a sports bra when engaged in exercise that involves a lot of bouncing, like running and trampoline. Not wearing a sports bra or wearing an improperly fitting one could allow large breasts to tear or sag, potentially leading to an injury and scar tissue.
Exercise Benefits
According to the NCI, sedentary women who don't exercise regularly are more likely to get breast cancer. Exercise is believed to reduce the risk of breast cancer by helping prevent weight gain and obesity. Studies show the risk of getting breast cancer is higher for postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese. One possible reason: Estrogen has been linked to breast cancer. "Estrogen is produced by fat tissue, so the fatter you are, the more estrogen is circulating in your body," Lee says. Staying at a healthy weight with the help of regular exercise can help ward off breast cancer and an abnormal mammogram. Brisk walking, jogging, swimming, bicycling and weight training are recommended activities for breast cancer prevention.
References
- Carol Lee, M.D.; Diagnostic Radiologist Specializing in Breast Care; New York City
- National Cancer Institute: Mammograms
