A mammogram is an x-ray test of the breasts (mammary glands). Mammography is used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump, and whether a lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mass. The x-ray picture is called a mammogram.
A mammogram is done to help screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Many types of small tumours can be seen on a mammogram before they can be felt by a woman or her health professional. Cancer is most easily treated and cured when it is discovered in an early stage.
Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman's risk of developing cancer. However, regular mammograms can reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting a tumour when it is more easily treated,
usually at Stage 1 or Stage 2.
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Further Testing
About 5% to 10% of screening mammograms will require more testing because some abnormality is suspected or discovered. If a week passes after receiving an abnormal result and you have not heard from your doctor or a diagnostic facility to book further tests, please contact your doctor.
Further testing may include another diagnostic mammogram of specific breast tissue (compression view), or another test, such as an ultrasound or biopsy.
Most abnormalities are harmless changes in breast tissue, but it is important for you and your doctor to have more information to reach a diagnosis.
Here’s an overview of how a diagnosis is reached:
Step 1: Usually a diagnostic mammogram and/or an ultrasound are able to confirm that the change in your breast is normal.
Step 2: If step 1 was inconclusive, a biopsy may be performed.
Step 3: If the results from Step 2 show a malignancy, then a surgical biopsy is done to confirm the presence of cancer.
If breast cancer is diagnosed, remember there are many information resources available to help you through treatment and recovery.
More information about Further Testing
SMP has a Fast Track Referral System in place that helps shorten the wait-time for between an abnormal screening mammography result and the next assessment procedure.
Waiting for Results