Mammogram

Mammography 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. The resulting X-ray picture is called a mammogram.

A mammogram is done to help screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Many small tumors 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 tumor when it is more easily treated.

Regular mammograms, every one to two years, are recommended for women over the age of 50.

Women between the ages of 40 and 50 should discuss the medical evidence concerning mammograms with their health professional when deciding how often to have a mammogram. The benefits of mammography in women in this age group are not as clear as the benefits in women ages 50 to 69. Women with a high risk of breast cancer and/or family history of breast cancer should consult with their physician about starting mammograms at an earlier age.

New at St. Mary’s North is state-of-the-art digital mammography that produces a three-dimensional computer image and is proven to have more accurate screenings. Digital mammography is a type of mammography which is proven to be more accurate for women in the following three categories:

• Women with dense breast tissue
• Women who are pre or peri menopausal
• Women under the age 50

Click here to sign up to receive an annual mammogram reminder from St. Mary's.
Click here to sign up to receive a monthly self breast exam reminder from St. Mary's.

Click here for more information on mammogram.