Breast Thermography: New Technology For Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

By : Erin Elster

Breast thermography is a new, non-invasive imaging procedure that utilizes infrared heat-sensing technology to detect metabolic changes in the breast. Abnormalities can be detected long before a tumor is present. Because researchers are acknowledging the importance of prevention and early detection as the keys to long term breast health, breast thermography is fast becoming an important diagnostic test to add to health care regimens.

To perform breast thermography, a special camera equipped with heat-sensing, or infrared, technology takes pictures of the breasts and the images are sent to a computer. Multiple images are taken from several different angles in order to provide a three-dimensional result. These images are digitally processed by sophisticated equipment to create a detailed thermal map.

Because each individual has a unique 'thermal fingerprint,' the images help your doctor to establish the normal thermal state of your breasts. That way, if a change occurs, a diagnosis can be determined quickly. The images reveal to the doctor whether the two breasts have the same temperature patterns and whether any areas differ from one breast to the other. Abnormalities on the infrared images, including changes in temperature, blood flow, hormone levels, or metabolic activity, may indicate current or potential tumor growth. The necessary diagnostic steps are then taken to determine the nature of the abnormalities.

During a mammogram, the estimated compression weight on the breast, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, can be several pounds to over forty pounds. In addition, radiation collects in the breast tissue during mammograms; the more radiation the breast is exposed to, the higher the risk of cancer. Unlike mammograms, thermography does not require compression of the breasts nor does the infrared scanning process involve radiation or contact with the body.

Mammograms can only detect tumors that have already developed. In comparison, breast thermography provides images of physiological changes in the breasts that could cause future tumor growth. One such abnormal thermal pattern, estrogen dominance, can be a precursor to breast cancer. If estrogen dominance is found, hormonal levels can be balanced using natural means; thereby, preventing cancer. Breast thermography can also detect small growths - those too small to be visible on mammogram or ultrasound - because these tiny masses radiate heat.

Breast thermography provides important, relevant, and necessary information about your health without exposure to radiation. This diagnostic test, which compliments clinical examination and mammography, should be added to your health care regimen. Prevention and early detection are the keys to long term breast and whole body health. By providing essential information early, breast thermography can save your life.