3D mammography provides more detail

Just as a three-dimensional photo is more detailed than a 2D image, 3D mammography gives medical professionals a clearer view to detect breast cancer.

The Food and Drug Administration approved 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, in 2011. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the new technology may become the new gold standard in breast imaging, especially for women with dense breasts.

Like traditional mammography, 3D mammography uses X-rays to produce images of breast tissue to detect lumps, tumors, or other abnormalities. A series of two-dimensional images are used to build a three-dimensional image of the breast.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer after skin cancer. It is the second-deadliest cancer after lung cancer. One in 8 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

Since 2007, breast cancer death rates have been steady in women younger than 50, but have continued to decrease in older women. These decreases are believed to be the result of finding breast cancer earlier through screening and increased awareness, as well as better treatments.

Medical experts agree that a mammogram is the best way to screen women for breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, numerous studies report that 3D mammography lowers the chance of a patient being called back for follow-up testing. 3D mammography also detects up to 30 percent more breast cancers.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network states women at average risk for breast cancer should have an annual mammogram at age 40 up to age 75.