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Mammograms are x-rays of the breasts completed in privacy by a specially-trained female technologist.
A screening mammogram consists of four images (two of each breast) that look for hidden cancer in those who are healthy (no symptoms) and have never had breast cancer.
If you are experiencing
symptoms including a lump or nipple discharge, you should see your health care provider immediately to determine if other testing is required.
Video available in
English,
Cantonese,
Mandarin &
Punjabi
Video available in English, Cantonese, Mandarin & Punjabi
Video available in English, Cantonese, Mandarin & Punjabi
Why is Body Mass Index (body and weight) information collected?
Body Mass Index (height and weight) has been recognized as a risk factor for breast cancer. BC Cancer Breast Screening has begun to collect this information to assist in assessing an individual’s breast cancer risk so that it may guide screening accordingly.
How does this affect your appointment?
The technologist will ask if she may measure your height and weight before your mammogram which will be documented on your confidential history form.
How long will this take?
It shouldn’t take more than a minute for the technologist to measure your height and weight.
Is this a required part of the screening mammogram?
We respect that agreeing to height and weight measurement is an individual decision, just as breast screening is, and it is in no way conditional to you having a screening mammogram. Please remember that all data that the screening program collects is completely confidential.
Where can you find more information about this?
Do I need a thyroid guard when I have a mammogram?
BC Cancer Breast Screening doesn't recommend the use of thyroid guards for screening mammograms because they can interfere with capturing a clear breast image. The guard can limit the technologist’s ability to place all of the breast tissue on the compression plate. As a result, some breast tissue may be missed or more x-rays may need to be taken.
Also, the screening mammography x-ray directs the radiation beam towards the breast tissue, so the thyroid isn't directly exposed to the radiation beam. The thyroid can be exposed to "background scatter radiation”, which is the same amount of radiation a North American would be exposed to from 30 minutes of natural background radiation.
Can I bring someone with me for support?
Yes, you may bring a family member or a friend to your appointment for support.
Is there quality control at BC Cancer Screening Centres?
Can screening mammograms find all types of breast cancer?
Screening mammograms can find most types of breast cancer early, but like all screening tests, they aren't perfect. Some cancers can't be seen on an x-ray and some cancers can develop quickly between 2-year intervals. Learn more about the benefits and limitations of screening mammography.
What's the difference between a diagnostic mammogram and a screening mammogram?
Screening mammograms are for those with no symptoms of breast cancer (no apparent breast problems). Diagnostic mammograms are ordered by a doctor to look at an area of concern in the breast; which may lead to more tests; such as an ultrasound or a biopsy.
Some studies say screening mammography is not effective. Is this true?
The effectiveness of screening mammography has been well established by several large clinical trials across the world. These trials have found a relative risk reduction of breast cancer deaths of between 15-25% for women aged 50-69. Of eight randomized control trials for screening mammography, seven showed that screening mammography is beneficial.
In February 2014, the British Medical Journal published
25-year follow-up results from the Canadian National Breast Screening Study – the only randomized control trial suggesting that annual screening in women age 40-59 does not reduce breast cancer mortality beyond that of physical examination (for the 50-59-year-olds) or usual care (for 40-49-year-olds). BC Cancer does not agree with the findings in this study, and other credible evidence does not correlate with the findings.
What is tomosynthesis?
Tomosynthesis is a new technology available to improve investigation of breast problems. The quality of all mammograms in the BC Cancer Breast Screening program is of the highest standard. Further assessment is needed to determine the optimal use of breast tomosynthesis in breast health. Until more information is available, the primary use of this technology will remain in the diagnostic setting.
Tomosynthesis is a new technology available to improve investigation of breast problems. The quality of all mammograms in the BC Cancer Breast Screening program is of the highest standard. Further assessment is needed to determine the optimal use of breast tomosynthesis in breast health. Until more information is available, the primary use of this technology will remain in the diagnostic setting.