Mammograms
What is a mammogram, and why should I have one?
A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray of the breast. It is still the best tool we have to find breast cancer early and save lives. All women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every 1-2 years.
What if I notice any changes in my breast?
- Mammograms are very useful, but they cannot find all problems.
- If you notice a change in your breast like a lump, thickening, or liquid leaking from the nipple, call your doctor or clinic right away.
- Many breast changes are not cancer, but only a doctor can know for sure.
How can I be sure I'm getting the best mammogram?
The FDA enforces The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). MQSA is a national law that approves all of the places where you can get a mammogram. This includes:
- Clinics
- Hospitals
- Doctors' offices
- Mammogram vans
- The FDA MQSA also makes sure that all of the people who work
there have the right training and education, including the people who:
- test the equipment to make sure it's working.
- take your mammogram.
- study your mammogram.
What about my results?
- Your results should be mailed to you in 30 days.
- If you don't get them in 30 days, call the clinic to ask for them.
- If you want a second opinion or if you change doctors, the law gives you the right to keep original mammograms.
What if I have a major problem with my exam or clinic?
- Talk with the person on staff whose job it is to handle problems and complaints.
- If your clinic can't help you, don't give up. Find out who approves your clinic. Make sure to get the company name, address, and phone number, and name of a person you can talk to.
- If that doesn't fix your problem, call FDA at 1-800-838-7715.
What if I have breast implants?
- When you make your appointment, make sure to say that you have breast implants.
- If the clinic doesn't accept patients with implants, ask them for the name and phone number of one that does.
- When you get to your appointment, remind the staff that you have implants.
- You will need a person who is trained to x-ray women with implants. Implants can hide breast tissue and make it harder to find problems.
August 2005
