Which of the following is a common type of breast cancer screening?

Mammography is considered the gold standard in breast cancer screening and is widely used for this purpose. It involves the use of low-energy X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissues. By detecting abnormalities or changes in breast tissue, mammography plays a crucial role in identifying breast cancer early, often before any symptoms appear.

The screening typically starts at age 40 or 50, depending on guidelines, and continues annually or biennially based on a woman’s risk factors and medical history. Its efficacy in reducing breast cancer mortality has been well-studied and established in numerous clinical trials.

While MRI scans can be useful in specific cases, such as for high-risk patients or for further evaluation of mammographic findings, they are not standard for routine screening. CT scans are primarily used for diagnostic purposes rather than screening and involve more radiation exposure without providing benefits in the context of breast cancer screening. Blood tests can help in diagnosing certain conditions but are not designed for breast cancer detection. Therefore, mammography stands out as the most established and effective method for routine breast cancer screening among the options provided.