What are Mammograms?
A mammogram is an X-ray test of the breasts (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump, and whether a lump is fluid-filled (a cyst) or a solid mass.
A mammogram is done to help screen for or detect breast cancer. Many 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 cancer when it is more easily treated. For example, mammograms have been shown to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 35% in women over the age of 50; studies suggest for women between 40 and 50 they may lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 25-35%.
Leading experts, the National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, and the American College of Radiology now recommend annual mammograms for women over 40. At CCMC our doctors will provide a referral for this test.
Finding breast cancers early with mammography has also meant that many more women being treated for breast cancer are able to keep their breasts. When caught early, localized cancers can be removed without resorting to breast removal (mastectomy).
Every Canadian province or territory has a breast cancer screening program, and guidelines in your area may differ slightly. Experts have different recommendations for how often you should have a mammogram. Here in B.C. our specialists will decipher this and treat it accordingly.