Breast Cancer Screening with 3D Mammography + Breast Ultrasound

Why Are 3D Mammography and Breast Ultrasound Important for Breast Cancer Screening? Breast cancer can be detected even before symptoms develop or a lump can be felt. Breast cancer screening therefore plays an important role in identifying breast abnormalities at an early stage and allows doctors to recommend appropriate additional examinations if any abnormal findings are detected.

One screening method currently available is 3D Digital Mammography, or 3D Mammogram (Digital Breast Tomosynthesis), which produces images of breast tissue from multiple angles. It may be performed together with Breast Ultrasound, which uses sound waves to provide additional evaluation of different areas of the breast.

What Is a 3D Mammogram?

A 3D Mammogram, also known as Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, is an X-ray examination of the breast. The machine captures images from multiple angles and processes them into three-dimensional images, allowing doctors to examine breast tissue layer by layer in greater detail.

This technique may help reduce the problem of overlapping breast tissue that can occur with conventional two-dimensional mammography and may make certain abnormalities easier to identify.

However, a 3D Mammogram still uses X-rays, and no screening method can detect every case of breast cancer. The most appropriate screening method should therefore be selected based on factors such as age, medical history, breast density, and each individual’s level of risk.

What Can Breast Ultrasound Help Detect?

Breast Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the tissues inside the breast without the use of X-rays.

Ultrasound may be used together with mammography to help doctors further evaluate areas where abnormalities or certain tissue characteristics have been identified. For example, it can help determine whether a detected lump appears to be solid or contains fluid.

However, ultrasound is not intended to replace mammography as a routine screening method for all women. The decision to undergo ultrasound should be based on a doctor’s assessment and each individual’s risk factors.

Why Is Breast Cancer Screening Important?

Screening refers to examinations performed before symptoms develop, with the aim of identifying abnormalities that may not yet be noticeable.

Mammography can detect certain breast abnormalities or cancers before a lump becomes large enough to be felt. It is therefore one of the key tools used in breast cancer screening.

An abnormal screening result does not necessarily mean that cancer is present. Depending on the findings, a doctor may recommend additional examinations such as a Diagnostic Mammogram, Breast Ultrasound, MRI, or a tissue biopsy.

At What Age Should Mammography Screening Begin?

The recommended age to begin breast cancer screening and the frequency of screening may vary depending on medical guidelines and each individual’s level of risk.

For women at average risk, many current guidelines recommend beginning mammography screening at around the age of 40. Women at higher risk—for example, those with certain family histories, genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, or a history of chest radiation therapy at a young age—may be advised to begin screening earlier or undergo additional types of screening.

Therefore, women aged 35–39 do not necessarily need to undergo mammography every year. It is advisable to consult a doctor to assess individual risk factors and determine the most appropriate time to begin screening.

Nonthavej Hospital’s package is specified as being suitable for women aged 35 and above who wish to undergo a breast health examination. This age criterion is specific to the package and should not be interpreted as a universal breast cancer screening recommendation for all women.

Who Should Pay Particular Attention to Breast Health Screening?

You should consult a doctor about an appropriate breast health screening plan if you fall into any of the following groups:

• You are within the age range at which breast cancer screening should be considered.
• You have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
• You are aware of genetic factors that increase your risk of breast cancer.
• You received radiation therapy to the chest at a young age.
• A doctor has assessed you as having a higher-than-average risk of breast cancer.

If you notice any breast abnormalities, such as a lump or unusual changes in the breast, you should not wait for your routine annual screening. You should consult a doctor for a direct medical assessment, as diagnostic examinations rather than routine screening may be required.

Breast Cancer Screening Package at Nonthavej Hospital

Nonthavej Hospital offers a Breast Cancer Screening Program with 3D Digital Mammography and Breast Ultrasound (3D Tomosynthesis Mammogram with Breast Ultrasound).

Price: THB 3,500

The package includes:

• 3D Tomosynthesis Mammogram
• Breast Ultrasound
• Physician’s fee
• Hospital service fee

• Promotion Period: October 1–31, 2026
• Location: Breast Care Department, 4th Floor, Nonthavej Hospital

If an abnormality is detected and the doctor recommends further examinations, the costs of those additional tests are not included in this package.

Those interested in the package are advised to contact the hospital in advance to confirm the details, terms and conditions, and appointment availability.

For More Information

• Hospital: Nonthavej Hospital
• Location: Breast Care Department, 4th Floor
• Tel.: 02-596-7888, 02-596-7906
• Package Details: Further details about the package are available on the Nonthavej Hospital website

Summary

Breast cancer screening aims to identify abnormalities before symptoms develop. Mammography is one of the primary methods used for breast cancer screening. A 3D Mammogram captures images of the breast from multiple angles, allowing doctors to evaluate breast tissue in greater detail. Breast Ultrasound may also be used as an additional examination when appropriate.

The recommended age to begin screening and the frequency of screening are not the same for everyone. In particular, women under the age of 40 and those with specific risk factors should consult a doctor to assess their individual risk and determine the most appropriate screening method.

Note: This content is provided for health information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis, individual risk assessment, or personalized advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Prepared by: Arun Rattanaparikan, M.D.

References

1. Nonthavej Hospital. Breast Cancer Screening Program with 3D Digital Mammography and Breast Ultrasound (Nonthavej Hospital Package Details)
2. National Cancer Institute. Mammograms – National Cancer Institute
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Screening for Breast Cancer – CDC