Breast Screening
Breast screening helps your consultant detect cancer or any other abnormalities in your breast at an initial stage.
This can be significant as early detection can help your consultant in planning and executing early treatment, improving the rate of success.
What are your breast screening options?
Mammograms and ultrasound are two established methods for imaging the breast.
Mammograms
During your mammogram examination, which is the most common breast screening method, our radiographer takes low-energy X-rays of your breasts which are used to detect cancerous cells and any other abnormalities that are difficult to see or feel. This examination is not suited for every age group. Women below the age of 40 are not advised to take a mammogram, unless there is a serious concern or high risk – i.e. a woman who has a family history of breast cancer.
Ultrasounds
For your ultrasound exam our Radiologist uses a small hand-held probe which emits high frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the internal breast tissues. This helps your consultant identify any abnormalities within your breast tissue. Ultrasound is typically done in conjunction with mammograms to add additional information and details for women who are aged 40 and above. This breast exam may also be recommended by your consultant if you are under the age of 40.
What to expect after your breast screening?
If an abnormality is detected during your breast screening, we may recommend a Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) or core biopsy to gather further information. These procedures help determine if the abnormality is cancerous. If the results are clear, no further treatment is necessary. However, if cancer is detected, your consultant will develop a personalized treatment plan
