Over 3000 Australian women have lost their lives to breast cancer this year alone. Early detection of breast cancer gives the best possible chance of survival.
What is a mammogram?
Mammography is a specialised x-ray technique for imaging the breasts. It is utilised to screen for breast cancer, and to investigate symptoms such as a lump, tenderness, nipple discharge or skin changes.
What are the benefits of a mammogram?
There are several benefits to having a screening mammogram:
- Increased chance at surviving breast cancer: Breast screening reduces deaths from breast cancer. Every 1000 women who have a screening mammogram every two years from age 50 to age 74, around 8 deaths will be prevented.
- Improved early detection: A screening mammogram can detect very small cancers, as small as a grain of rice, before any symptoms are felt or noticed by you or your doctor.
- Improved treatment options if diagnosed: When breast cancer is found early, it is most likely to be small, and successfully treated. Other benefits of early detection include increased treatment options and improved quality of life.
- Peace of mind: No evidence of cancer detected? Great! We’re glad you’ve got peace of mind and we’ll see you at your next breast screening examination.
We can complete your mammogram in 30 minutes - the same time it takes to get a manicure or pedicure. If you're over 40, talk to your GP about a referral for a screening mammogram.