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Why are Mammograms Important?

BC Cancer Breast Screening is committed to ensuring the safety of patients and health care providers during screening mammography appointments. Learn more about breast screening.‎

They help find cancer when it is small, allowing more treatment options and a better chance of recovery.


It is estimated that 1 in 8 BC women will get breast cancer in their lifetime.

Screening mammograms are considered the international gold standard for detecting breast cancer early. Mammograms can usually find lumps 2 or 3 years before you or your primary care provider can feel them. Research has shown a greater than 25 per cent reduction in deaths from breast cancer among those who regularly screen.

 

‎While a family history of breast cancer is cause for a higher-than-average risk, the biggest risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman over 50 years of age.

80 per cent of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women 50 years of age or older.

Patient stories

Christine's Story

Meet Christine – a breast cancer survivor whose cancer was detected by a mammogram.

 

Ernestine's Story

Ernestine talks about life beyond breast cancer and advocates for First Nations women and their breast health.

SOURCE: Why are Mammograms Important? ( )
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