Video available in
Cantonese,
Mandarin and
Punjabi.
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 and
Punjabi.
Video available in
English,
Cantonese,
Mandarin and
Punjabi.
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 is the difference between diagnostic and screening mammograms?
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.
How effective is screening mammography?
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 about 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.