Early detection can save lives, particularly in the case of breast cancer. Regular breast screenings play a vital role in the early detection of breast cancer and other breast conditions.
In a breast cancer screening, you or a medical professional examines your breasts for any indications of cancer, like lumps or tissue abnormalities. Screening can take several forms, including doing a breast self-exam at home or having a medical professional perform a clinical examination during a visit.
Imaging tests can help doctors assess changes in breast tissue in greater detail. Among the most common imaging tests used for this purpose are mammograms and breast ultrasounds.
While both help doctors examine breast tissue for any signs of concern, they use different technologies and are often recommended for different reasons. Understanding how these tests differ can help you know what to expect and ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your needs.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a specialized type of X-ray used to examine the breast. It is the most effective screening test for breast cancer. It captures multiple detailed images of breast tissue using low doses of radiation, allowing doctors to detect early signs of breast cancer or other abnormalities that may not be felt during a physical exam.
Mammograms are especially effective at identifying tiny calcium deposits (microcalcifications) in the breast tissue, which can sometimes indicate the presence of early-stage cancer or other changes that require further evaluation [1].
They are also crucial for the diagnosis and post-cancer monitoring of breast cancer.
Mammograms are the most common routine screening tool, especially for women aged 40 and older, as they can identify changes in the breast long before symptoms appear.
What is a Breast Ultrasound?
Breast ultrasound, also known as the sonogram, is a simple and safe imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the breast. It is generally used for diagnostic purposes. For instance, it is particularly useful for examining dense breasts or a suspicious lump discovered on a mammogram.
A breast ultrasound can effectively differentiate between a solid lump and a benign (noncancerous) fluid-filled cyst. If a mass can be felt during a physical exam but does not appear on a mammogram, a breast ultrasound could help define it [2].
Since it does not use radiation, breast ultrasound is also a good option for younger women or those with dense breast tissue, where mammograms may not provide a clear image.
Mammogram vs Breast Ultrasound: A Comparison
How They Work
The way mammograms and breast ultrasounds function differs significantly.
Mammogram: A mammogram uses low-dose radiation to X-ray the breast. Although a mammogram exposes you to small amounts of radiation, the benefits typically outweigh the risks. However, radiation from a mammogram can damage the fetus if you are pregnant.
Ultrasound: Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of the inside of the breast. The sound waves bounce off breast tissues, and the returning echoes are used to form an ultrasound image. Breast ultrasounds do not emit any radiation.
Image Quality
The image quality of a mammogram and a breast ultrasound also differs.
Mammogram: A mammogram creates detailed X-ray images of the breast, which help doctors see minute changes in the breast tissue, such as tiny calcium deposits or early signs of cancer. Mammograms are highly detailed images that are very useful for detecting problems that might not be felt or seen otherwise. However, in women with dense breast tissue, the images can be harder to read because both dense tissue and possible lumps appear white on the X-ray.
Ultrasound: A breast ultrasound uses sound waves instead of X-rays to create images of the breast. The images are not as detailed as a mammogram, but they show real-time movement, helping doctors see if a lump is solid or fluid-filled. However, ultrasound cannot detect microcalcifications—tiny calcium deposits that sometimes signal early breast cancer. While these spots are not always cancerous, many early breast cancers are first suspected because of calcifications seen on a mammogram.
Limitations
Both mammograms and breast ultrasounds have limitations. However, when it comes to early breast cancer detection, breast ultrasounds typically have more limitations.
Mammogram: A mammogram can identify minor changes that may signal the presence of early-stage cancer. However, it does have some limitations. Mammograms may be less accurate for women with dense breast tissue because both dense tissue and potential lumps appear white on the image, making differentiation more difficult. In addition, mammograms use a small amount of radiation and may cause mild discomfort due to breast compression during the procedure.
Ultrasound: A breast ultrasound uses sound waves instead of radiation to make real-time images of the breast. It helps show whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled, especially in women with dense breasts. However, ultrasound images are less detailed than mammograms and cannot detect microcalcifications. Furthermore, the operator’s skill level can significantly impact the accuracy of breast ultrasound results. That’s why ultrasound is usually used as a follow-up test rather than a substitute for regular mammogram screenings.
Mammogram vs Breast Ultrasound: Key Differences
The following table summarizes key differences between a mammogram and a breast ultrasound.
Feature | Mammogram | Breast Ultrasound |
Technology | X-ray imaging | Sound waves |
Radiation | Yes (low-dose) | None |
Best for | Detecting calcifications, early cancers | Distinguishing cysts and solid masses |
Used for | Screening and diagnosis | Diagnostic follow-up or dense breasts |
Effectiveness | Best for overall cancer screening | Best for targeted examination |
When to get a Mammogram?
Mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Most experts recommend that women begin regular mammogram screenings at age 40 and continue every one to two years, depending on personal risk factors and their doctor’s advice [3,4].
Women with a family history of breast cancer or other higher risk factors may need to start screening earlier or have additional imaging tests. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for you.
When are Breast Ultrasounds Required?
Breast ultrasounds are often performed as a follow-up or additional test to a mammography. An ultrasound, for instance, can sometimes detect cancers that are not visible on a mammogram image in patients with dense breast tissue.
Ultrasound as an annual test (rather than a mammogram) is not currently recommended for individuals who are not at risk of breast cancer. This is because there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the benefits of using ultrasound alone outweigh the potential drawbacks, such as missed early cancers or unnecessary follow-up tests.
Conclusion
Mammograms and breast ultrasounds are both essential tools for evaluating breast health, but they serve different purposes. A mammogram is the best screening test for detecting early signs of breast cancer, while an ultrasound is most often used as a follow-up test or for women with dense breast tissue. Discussing your age, risk factors, and breast density with your healthcare professional will help you determine the most suitable screening plan.
Book Your Mammogram or Breast Ultrasound Today at Chughtai Lab!
Taking charge of your breast health starts with timely screening. Whether you need a routine mammogram or a follow-up breast ultrasound, our lab offers advanced imaging technology and a comfortable, supportive environment. Our experienced team is here to ensure your screening is quick, accurate, and stress-free. Book your appointment today and take an essential step toward early detection and peace of mind.
Chughtai Lab – Your Partner in Breast Health
At Chughtai Lab, we are committed to supporting women in the early detection and management of breast cancer. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic services include mammogram and breast ultrasound, which help detect even the slightest changes in breast tissue, often before symptoms appear. With advanced imaging technology and expert radiologists, we ensure accurate, safe, and timely results to guide further evaluation and treatment.
Our Chughtai Breast Clinic provides a complete care experience under one roof. From screening and diagnosis to consultation and follow-up, our female specialists offer compassionate, confidential, and personalized care for every woman.
To further promote women’s wellness, Chughtai Lab offers Pink Card, an exclusive membership designed to cater to women’s health needs. The Pink Card provides special benefits and discounts on lab tests, imaging services, and health packages, making preventive care more accessible and affordable for all women.
References
- About Mammograms. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/about/mammograms.html. Accessed: 24th October, 2025.
- Haghighi, F., Naseh, G., Mohammadifard, M. and Abdollahi, N., 2017. Comparison of mammography and ultrasonography findings with pathology results in patients with breast cancer in Birjand, Iran. Electronic Physician, 9(10), p.5494.
- Breast Cancer: Screening. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening. Published Online: 30th April, 2024. Accessed: 24th October, 2025.
- Nicholson, W.K., Silverstein, M., Wong, J.B., Barry, M.J., Chelmow, D., Coker, T.R., Davis, E.M., Jaén, C.R., Krousel-Wood, M., Lee, S. and Li, L., 2024. Screening for breast cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Jama, 331(22), pp.1918-1930.
- Mirabito, S. Breast Ultrasound vs. Mammography: Which Is Best? VeryWell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-not-annual-ultrasounds-instead-of-mammograms-430185. Updated Online: 9th October, 2023. Accessed: 24th October, 2025.
- Cohen, E. Mammogram vs. breast ultrasound: What’s the difference? The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/mammogram-vs–breast-ultrasound–what-s-the-difference.h00-159702279.html. Published Online: 26th November, 2024. Accessed: 24th October, 2025.
