TikTok videos claim mammograms are dangerous, but experts say they're misleading. Screening remains essential for early breast cancer detection.
TikTok videos spread anti-mammography claims
On TikTok, some videos suggest that mammography is dangerous or unnecessary, which can mislead viewers about the safety and importance of breast cancer screening. These videos often use scientific-sounding arguments to question the value of regular mammograms.Claims about mammograms and breast cancer risk
Some videos claim that repeated mammograms increase the risk of breast cancer, or that screening is a scam. These statements can cause confusion and fear, leading some women to cancel their appointments or seek alternative exams instead of following recommended screening guidelines.X-rays in mammography and their safety
Mammography does use X-rays, which is a fact that makes the videos seem credible. However, the Health Insurance Fund clarifies that the radiation dose used in mammograms is very low and carefully controlled to minimize risk while maximizing the ability to detect abnormalities.Why screening remains essential
Despite the misleading information, breast cancer screening through mammography remains a vital tool for early detection. Regular screening can help identify cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage, improving outcomes for affected women.
