Mammography

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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.

What is digital mammography?

Regular mammograms are viewed on X-ray film. Digital mammograms are viewed on a computer.

Who should think about having digital mammography?

• Women under 50 years old.
• Women with “dense” breasts. (Breasts that have more tissue than fat.)
• Call your clinic or doctor to see if digital mammography is right for you.

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