Patient perceptions of mammographic compression: Empowering women to improve mammography outcomes

Most women are not informed during mammogram procedures thatmammographic compression is critical to improving image quality and reducingradiation exposure. After multiple experiences of delays due to callbacks andre-imaging due to insufficient mammographic compression, I decided to initiatean advocate-led survey to assess the awareness and understanding of theclinical benefits of mammographic compression. I developed a questionnaire thatwas completed voluntarily and anonymously by 100 women undergoing routinescreening mammography about their perceptions of and tolerance for pain,anxiety, fear and discomfort associated with mammograms. Findings reveal asubstantial gap in patient awareness which may contribute to lack of compliancewith mammographic screening recommendations. My preliminary findings show thatpatient education can be effective in making women aware that they DO have thepower to improve the usefulness of their mammogram as well as minimize theirradiation exposure.