Which imaging technique is most commonly used for breast cancer screening?

Mammography is the most commonly used imaging technique for breast cancer screening because it is specifically designed to identify early signs of breast cancer through low-dose X-ray imaging. It can detect tumors that are too small to be felt during a clinical breast examination, which is crucial for early intervention. Mammography has been extensively studied and endorsed by various health organizations as the standard screening method for women, particularly those aged 40 and older, as it significantly reduces breast cancer mortality by facilitating early diagnosis and treatment.

In contrast, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is typically used as a supplemental tool rather than a primary screening method due to its higher cost and longer duration, along with its specific indications, such as in high-risk patients or for assessing known cancers. Computed tomography (CT) scans are not routinely used for breast cancer screening since they involve higher radiation exposure and are more suited for evaluating other conditions. Ultrasound can be useful in certain contexts, such as for further evaluation of abnormal findings or in women with dense breast tissue, but it is not a first-line screening tool like mammography.