With 1 in 8 women being diagnosed in their lifetime, breast cancer is at the top of the awareness list when it comes to diseases. As a result, you may hear about new and innovative techniques for prompting early diagnosis on travel nursing jobs. One recent development has been digital mammography. This is a method in which clinicians use a computerized film to check patients for signs of breast cancer, according to WebMD. However, research indicates that this method may be no more effective than a traditional mammogram.
No increase in diagnosis
Medical professionals from Yale University School of Medicine conducted two cohort studies that took place over the course of two years each. In total, more than 270,000 females participated in the research. The first study was completed in 2001 and 2002, in which only 2 percent of the women underwent digital imaging. During the second round of research, from 2008 to 2009, that number increased to 29.8 percent. However, the scientists found that this increase in digital mammography did not lead to more cancer detections. In fact, it was suggested that further research be conducted regarding the costs and benefits that are actually associated with this screening technology.
Possible benefits
However, this is not to say that digital imaging cannot be beneficial in detecting breast cancer. It is likely that additional studies will be conducted to improve results provided by digital mammography. WebMD pointed out that these procedures may:
- allow for greater storage of results, as digital mammograms take up much less room than standard X-ray exams.
- reduce the amount of radiation exposure patients experience, as 25 percent less exposure is used for the digital method.
- be viewed and interpreted by more than just the radiologist who completes the exam, as the files can be sent to other professionals and even computer programs for examination.
- provide a clearer picture to medical professionals, as digital results are able to be easily manipulated up viewing.
When discussing digital mammography with patients as a travel nurse, you will want to inform them that these are more costly than standard mammograms. Additionally, they aren't recommended for everyone. Females under the age of 50 who have dense breasts and are premenopausal or perimenopausal are ideal candidates for the exams. Those who are at a high risk for breast cancer should discuss options with their doctor before scheduling an appointment.