Pregnancy is accompanied by a lengthy list of do's and don'ts—take prenatal vitamins, no alcohol, exercise carefully, and eat well. But what about when an unplanned health issue presents itself, such as the necessity for a mammogram? For most women, this might not even be something they think about until they are in a position where breast cancer screening is an option.

Perhaps you're over 40 and in need of your yearly mammogram, or perhaps you have a history of breast cancer in your family and you want to keep your screenings current. More emergently, you've found a lump in your breast. So, can you have a mammogram when pregnant? The answer is yes, but there are several things to consider.

Pregnancy creates substantial hormonal changes that affect the body, as well as breast tissue. Estrogen and progesterone's rise causes the breasts to expand and condition to produce milk, which results in denser tissue. This increased density is more challenging to detect any abnormalities with using mammograms. Even post-delivery, should the woman be breastfeeding, milk-filled glands can also make the breasts denser and, as a result, make mammogram readings less clear.

While 3D mammograms have improved imaging technology to help navigate dense breast tissue, doctors often suggest postponing routine screening mammograms until after pregnancy if there are no symptoms or high-risk factors. However, if a lump or abnormality is found, your doctor may recommend immediate diagnostic imaging.

When Is a Mammogram Necessary During Pregnancy?

Mammograms are not done routinely if a woman becomes pregnant, yet there are specific situations where one might be unavoidable. Breast cancer in pregnancy does occur—1 in 3,000 times—but it's not common. If a lump is detected by a woman, she has constant breast pain and no explanation, or she is at high risk (e.g., strong history of breast cancer in her family or genetic defect such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), a physician will order a mammogram.

The process itself takes very little radiation exposure. The radiation employed by a mammogram is concentrated on the breast, and there is little to no radiation that reaches other areas of the body. A lead apron is also placed over the belly to shield the unborn child.

Alternative Breast Imaging Options During Pregnancy

For pregnant women requiring breast imaging, physicians may initially suggest an ultrasound. In contrast to a mammogram, an ultrasound is not done with the use of radiation and is deemed safe for pregnant women.

An ultrasound of the breast can establish whether a lump is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid tumor that needs further investigation. Yet ultrasounds are not always diagnostic, and in certain instances, a mammogram or biopsy is needed to determine or rule out cancer.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is also an imaging choice but has some drawbacks. The majority of breast MRIs employ a contrast material called gadolinium, which is able to pass through the placenta and to the fetus. Although risks are not entirely clear, physicians usually do not use MRI with contrast unless necessary. Some practitioners may offer an MRI without contrast as an option.

What If You Find a Lump In Your Breast During Pregnancy?

Breast changes throughout pregnancy are normal, but finding a lump should never be taken lightly. If you notice a lump, alert your medical provider right away. They will conduct a clinical breast exam and potentially have you get an imaging study such as an ultrasound or mammogram to see whether anything needs to be done.

If imaging indicates a suspicious mass, a biopsy can be suggested. Core needle biopsy is the most frequently used and is safe during pregnancy. It consists of numbing the skin with local anesthetic and inserting a hollow needle into the area to obtain a small sample of tissue to be tested.

Breast Cancer Treatment During Pregnancy

In the extremely uncommon event of a diagnosis of breast cancer while pregnant, therapy will be determined by the nature and extent of cancer and by how far along in pregnancy one is. The most frequent form of treatment is surgery—either mastectomy (surgical removal of the entire breast) or lumpectomy (surgical removal of the lump)—which is usually safe while pregnant.

Chemotherapy is also possible but usually only attempted after the first trimester, when it can damage developing fetal tissue. Radiation therapy is not used during pregnancy and is typically deferred until after giving birth. Hormonal therapy and targeted therapies are also omitted until after giving birth.

Can I Get a Mammogram While Breastfeeding?

Yes, you can have a mammogram while you are breastfeeding. The radiation in a mammogram does not impact breast milk or hurt the baby. But breast density is still high during lactation, and this might complicate detection of abnormalities. To enhance image quality, physicians usually advise breastfeeding or pumping 30 minutes prior to the mammogram.

Routine screening mammograms are usually delayed in pregnancy unless there is a high-level concern.

If a lump is detected, an ultrasound is typically the initial imaging study done, with a mammogram being a consideration if additional assessment is necessary.

• Pregnancy mammograms utilize minimal radiation and are safe when required.
• Breast MRI with contrast is usually avoided in pregnancy.
• Breast biopsy, when necessary, is safe during pregnancy.

If breast cancer does develop during pregnancy, there are available treatment options that can be adjusted to keep the mother and infant safe.

Pregnancy is a period of significant change, and health issues particularly those involving breast health, are anxiety-provoking. Routine mammograms are typically postponed until after giving birth, but diagnostic testing can be done if necessary. The best you can do is discuss changes you notice in your breasts with your healthcare provider in an open manner. Early detection and prompt treatment can make a very big difference in the health of both mother and fetus.

A new global analysis by the World Health Organization and its cancer research arm, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, has found that prevention could dramatically reduce cancer cases worldwide. The report estimates that 37 percent of all new cancers in 2022, about 7.1 million cases, were linked to causes that can largely be avoided.

The findings are based on data from 185 countries and 36 cancer types and were released ahead of World Cancer Day. Researchers examined 30 risk factors including tobacco use, alcohol, obesity, lack of physical activity, air pollution, ultraviolet radiation and nine cancer causing infections. The report stresses that prevention may be the single most powerful tool available to reduce the global cancer burden.

According to WHO data, tobacco remains the biggest contributor, responsible for about 15 percent of all new cancer cases globally. Infections accounted for around 10 percent while alcohol contributed to roughly 3 percent. Three cancers together made up nearly half of all preventable cases worldwide. Lung cancer was strongly linked to smoking and polluted air, stomach cancer to Helicobacter pylori infection, and cervical cancer to human papillomavirus infection.

WHO cancer control experts said the analysis shows clearly how much cancer risk comes from factors people and governments can act on before the disease even develops.

Differences between men, women and regions

The report shows clear gender differences. Preventable cancer accounted for 45 percent of new cases among men compared with 30 percent among women. Among men, smoking alone contributed to 23 percent of new cancers followed by infections at 9 percent and alcohol at 4 percent. Among women, infections were the largest contributor at 11 percent, followed by smoking at 6 percent and high body mass index at 3 percent.

The burden also varied widely across regions. In women, preventable cancers ranged from 24 percent in North Africa and West Asia to 38 percent in sub Saharan Africa. Among men, East Asia had the highest share at 57 percent while Latin America and the Caribbean recorded the lowest at 28 percent. Researchers say these differences reflect lifestyle habits, environmental exposures, workplace safety standards and public health policies.

The WHO report highlights practical steps that could reduce cancer cases. These include stronger tobacco control laws, limits on alcohol use, vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B, improved air quality, safer workplaces and promotion of healthier diets and physical activity.

Health officials say coordinated action across sectors such as transport, education, labour and energy can prevent millions of cancer diagnoses and lower long term healthcare costs while improving overall population health.

Reality television personality Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi has revealed she has been diagnosed with stage-one cervical cancer after undergoing further testing for previously detected abnormal cells.

The Jersey Shore alum shared in a Feb. 20 TikTok video that a cone biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that develops in gland-lining cells. Doctors discovered the disease less than a month after she first announced the presence of cancerous cervical cells.

“Not the news I was hoping for,” the 38-year-old said, adding that the early detection significantly improved her outlook.

Detected Early After Years Of Tests

Polizzi said she had experienced abnormal Pap smear results for several years before undergoing the procedure that led to the diagnosis. She encouraged followers not to delay screenings out of fear or discomfort, noting early detection made the cancer potentially curable.

Medical teams also informed her that the cancer had not spread deeper into the cervix — an encouraging sign — though adenocarcinoma can be more aggressive and may spread to lymph nodes if untreated.

Further Scans And Likely Surgery

Doctors have scheduled a PET scan to determine whether the cancer has spread elsewhere in the body. Depending on the findings, treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.

Polizzi said she is leaning toward a hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, describing it as the most sensible course of action.

Message to Fans: Don’t Skip Screenings

The television star, a mother of three, thanked supporters for their encouragement and said she plans to keep sharing updates during treatment.

She also stressed the importance of routine check-ups, calling cervical cancer “nothing to joke about” and urging people to seek timely testing, even when it feels uncomfortable or frightening.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer, also known as cancer of the cervix, begins on the surface of the cervix and involves the growth of abnormal cells in its lining. Cervical cancer is primarily caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is preventable with a vaccine.

There are three main types of cervical cancer:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: This type forms in the lining of the cervix and accounts for about 70% of cases.
• Adenocarcinoma: This type forms in the cells that produce mucus and is less common.
• Mixed carcinoma: This type has features of both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Preventive measures, including the HPV vaccine and regular screenings, are crucial in reducing the risk of cervical cancer. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

In its early stages, cervical cancer typically doesn’t show any symptoms, which is why regular screening is important to catch it at this stage. Once symptoms do start appearing, they include abnormal vaginal bleeding (in between periods) and unusual vaginal discharge. Pain during sex in the pelvic region is another common symptom. As the cancer worsens, patients may experience more severe symptoms like weight loss, fatigue and leg swelling.

Precancerous changes in cervical cells rarely cause symptoms. The only way to detect abnormal cells that may develop into cancer is through a cervical screening test. If these early cell changes progress into cervical cancer, the most common signs include:

• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Menstrual bleeding that is longer or heavier than usual
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• Changes in vaginal discharge, such as increased discharge or discharge with a strong or unusual color or smell
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but if you are worried or symptoms persist, it is essential to contact your doctor. This is important for anyone with a cervix, including individuals who are straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

Early signs of cervical cancer can include:

• Pain during sex
• Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as after sex, between periods, after menopause, or following a pelvic exam
• Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, and/or has a strong odour

As cervical cancer progresses, it can cause additional symptoms, such as:

• Pelvic pain
• Trouble urinating
• Swollen legs
• Kidney failure
• Bone pain
• Weight loss and lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• Backache
• Stomach pain

It is crucial to note that you might not notice symptoms of cervical cancer until it has advanced. Regular screenings and prompt medical consultation for any concerning symptoms are vital for early detection and effective treatment.

Adolescents who use cannabis could face a significantly higher risk of developing psychotic (doubled), bipolar (doubled), depressive and anxiety disorders, a study shows.

Researchers from Kaiser Permanente, the Public Health Institute's Getting it Right from the Start, the University of California, San Francisco and the University of Southern California, who studied 463,396 adolescents ages 13 to 17 through age 26, found that children between these ages were extremely prone to developing mental illnesses.

Lynn Silver, MD, program director of the Getting it Right from the Start, a program of the Public Health Institute, and study co-author noted: "As cannabis becomes more potent and aggressively marketed, this study indicates that adolescent cannabis use is associated with double the risk of incident psychotic and bipolar disorders, two of the most serious mental health conditions.

"The evidence increasingly points to the need for an urgent public health response - one that reduces product potency, prioritizes prevention, limits youth exposure and marketing and treats adolescent cannabis use as a serious health issue, not a benign behavior."

"Even after accounting for prior mental health conditions and other substance use, adolescents who reported cannabis use had a substantially higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders - particularly psychotic and bipolar disorders.

"This study adds to the growing body of evidence that cannabis use during adolescence could have potentially detrimental, long-term health effects. It's imperative that parents and their children have accurate, trusted, and evidence-based information about the risks of adolescent cannabis use," Kelly Young-Wolff, Ph.D., lead author of the study and senior research scientist at the Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, added.

The observational US-focused study also found that cannabis use was more common among adolescents enrolled in Medicaid and those living in more socioeconomically deprived neighborhoods.

How Does Cannabis Usage In Teens Affect Overall Health?

Strong links have also been found between adolescent cannabis use and mental health issues, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and, in some cases, schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders.

Additionally, smoking cannabis can lead to breathing problems similar to tobacco, such as chronic bronchitis. It can also cause an increased heart rate, and some studies suggest a higher risk of heart attacks.

Early initiation, especially before age 16, increases the risk of developing Cannabis Use Disorder (addiction). High-potency products can lead to rapid onset of withdrawal symptoms, mood changes, and even physical complications like Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (severe nausea/vomiting)

Why Should Early Cannabis Usage Be Discouraged?

Compared to teens who don't use cannabis, those who do are more likely to drop out of high school or not finish a college degree. Using cannabis can cause several immediate and long-term problems for teens:

• Difficulty Thinking
• Memory Issues
• Poor Coordination
• Attention Problems
• School and Social Troubles
• Cannabis use can also lead to more serious issues that affect a teen's overall life.
• Increased Mental Health Risks

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and unsafe, as it severely slows reaction time. Cannabis reduces coordination and concentration, impacting all the skills necessary for responsible and safe driving.

Around 30 percent of cannabis users are also known to develop an addiction (cannabis use disorder). Failing to quit or choosing the drug over family activities are signs. This risk is higher for frequent teen users.