10/11/2026
Which Is Better: Mammogram or Thermogram?
By Rick G. Baker
Executive Director
Over the past nine years, the Becky Baker Foundation has provided more than 3,000 free mammograms to uninsured women and men across the country. Part of our mission today is to help everyone learn about different options so they can make confident health choices—especially when it comes to preventing cancer and other conditions. In 2022, we began offering free thermograms as a breast screening choice. Since mammograms are well known, it makes sense to compare the two. (We no longer provide free screenings, but will help you secure one if needed.)
A mammogram uses radiation to look for changes in breast tissue, much like an x-ray for a broken arm. You stand at the machine while your tissue is gently compressed between two plates. I’ve talked with many women about this: some feel no discomfort, while others find the pressure painful. A health provider can help you time it right so you have a baseline for future checks. Screening used to start around age 40, but updated insights and factors like family history may lead some clinicians to suggest earlier tests.
Thermography uses infrared technology to spot temperature changes. It can be used anywhere on the body and creates a colorful map of heat patterns. Inflammation or growths may show up as warmer areas with more blood flow. Because there’s no compression or radiation, it’s painless and considered safe. Like any test, it’s good to understand the pros and cons so you can choose what feels right for you. Over the years, I’ve leaned toward natural health approaches and seen great results in my body. I trust my body’s ability to heal under the right conditions. Were I to need a breast cancer screening, I would make choices that match that belief.
Picking the right option is personal. Look for local providers who offer both and gather information. The most important thing is that taking action can save lives. Fear and worry sometimes hold us back when we’re caring for ourselves. Screening tools are just ways to see more detail than we can on our own. Use them as part of your health care and share what you learn. Preventing illness is always better than treating it.
