Can detect the presence of a physical mass that has reached a certain size

Can detect the first signs that a cancer may be forming up to 10 years before a mass is formed and can be seen by mammography

Cannot differentiate between a benign mass and a cancerous mass*

Can differentiate between fibrocystic tissue changes and changes which involve cancer cells

Involves exposure to radiation which is cumulative in the body**

Involves no radiation, no pain, and requires no contact with the body

Cannot view areas just below the arm pit where many breast cancers begin

Views the entire area including the top of the breast below the arm pit