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Updated: May 24, 2026

Clinical Imaging of Microwave Mammography
Published on: November 14, 2025
Mammography and the risk of thyroid cancer
Ioannis Sechopoulos1, R Edward Hendrick
1Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, 1701 Uppergate Dr NE, Ste 5018, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. isechop@emory.edu
Objective:
The purpose of this article is to discuss recent media reports that have suggested a link between mammography and increased incidence of thyroid cancer in women. Those reports have caused many requests that a thyroid shield be used during mammography.
Conclusion:
On the basis of a previously published study that investigated organ doses from mammography and of cancer risk estimates using the seventh Biologic Effects of Ionizing Radiation report, we contend that thyroid shielding during mammography is unnecessary and may increase retakes rather than afford radiation protection of the thyroid.
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