Digital Mammography FAQs

Mammography is a medical imaging technique that uses low-dose radiation to take images of breast tissue. This allows us to detect and diagnose diseases of the breast. An appointment for mammography is often called a “mammogram”.

Mammograms are a useful screening tool in detecting early-stage breast cancer. Early detection means that treatment can often be started before the cancer has spread outside of the breast, leading to a higher rate of remission.

You may need a diagnostic mammogram if you have seen your doctor with a breast symptom such as a lump, or if an abnormality is noticed on a routine screening mammogram. The technologist will focus specialized images to the area of concern in your breast.

Keep in mind that if your mammogram reveals something abnormal, you do not necessarily have cancer. Generally, 85% of the lumps found through a mammogram are benign lumps that do not require treatment.

If your mammogram does identify cancer, this knowledge gives you and your doctor the ability to treat the cancer as soon as possible.

For the latest news from the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, please visit www.cbcf.org

Screening mammograms are performed in healthy women with no known breast symptoms and who do not have a history of breast cancer or breast implants. Screening mammograms are recommended for all women in British Columbia over the age of 40 at regular intervals of every one or two years. The technologist will take four standard images. Screening mammograms are available through the Screening Mammography Program of BC. Visit the BC Cancer website to learn more: www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/breast/default.htm