October 18, 2025

Ep. 510 Confused by Mammograms, Breast MRIs & Ultrasounds? The Clear Guide to Breast Imaging with Dr. Robyn Roth

53 minutes

As a nurse practitioner, I feel a deep responsibility to my listeners and community to ensure that every guest I bring on shares accurate, evidence-based information. A few months ago, I decided to remove two podcasts from earlier this year to make way for an expert who could speak specifically and authoritatively on breast cancer health. So, I am honored to welcome Dr. Robin Roth today, better known as The Boobie Docs, on her popular breast health social media platform, where she shares information about breast cancer in a fun and educational way.

Dr. Roth is an associate professor of radiology, specializing in breast and abdominal imaging. She is also the host of The Girlfriend's Guide to Breast Cancer podcast, created to support those navigating a breast cancer diagnosis or caring for a loved one.

In our discussion today, we dive into misinformation about breast health and breast imaging. We explore the importance of acknowledging disinformation on social media, risk factors for early breast cancer screening, significant and modifiable risk factors, and the effects of dense breast tissue. We examine breast imaging, exploring ultrasound and mammography, the differences between 2D and 3D mammograms (the gold standard), and when to use MRIs. We clarify why thermography and QT imaging are not the gold standard, and why we need to request different types of imaging modalities. We discuss the importance of screenings, challenges, including diagnoses like DCIS, personalized approaches to breast cancer screening, breast cancer staging, and issues with imaging after mastectomies and with implant placement. Dr. Roth also explains how 80% of breast biopsies end up being benign, how to manage anxiety and callbacks for mammograms, how to understand lab reports in plain language terms, and the benefits of supportive resources like cancerbesties.com.

With her expertise and approachable style, Dr. Roth reminds us that proper information can make all the difference when it comes to breast health. You will not want to miss this conversation, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

How online platforms fuel confusion around breast health and imaging

Disinformation may influence breast cancer screening decisions

Modifiable factors that can reduce or increase your risk of breast cancer

Why dense breast tissue matters for imaging accuracy

Ultrasounds, 2D and 3D mammograms, and MRIs

Thermography and QT imaging are not gold standards

Why every individual DCIS diagnosis needs a personalized approach

Breast cancer staging and how it guides treatment

80% of biopsies are benign, but still essential

How to manage anxiety around callbacks and make sense of lab reports

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