Mammography is a x-ray screening test used to detect the presence of breast cancer. Mammography is useful because it can detect smaller tumors which cannot be felt with breast self-examination. The earlier the cancer is detected, the less invasive the treatment may be and the better the outcome.

During the procedure, the breast is placed on the x-ray machine and compressed between two x-ray plates. This serves to flatten the breast, spreading the breast tissue, allowing for imaging of as much of the breast as possible. Views from both the top and side may be taken.

If any abnormal masses are detected they may require further examination in the form of a needle biopsy to establish whether cancer cells are present. In needle biopsy, the doctor guides a needle to the lump and uses the needle to extract a small sample of cells to test for cancer.

The current recommendation from the Canadian Cancer Society is that women between the ages of 50 to 69 have a mammogram every 2 years. If you are at increased risk, such as there is a history of breast cancer in your family, you should start having mammograms performed at an earlier age. You should discuss with your family doctor the appropriate scheduling of mammography screening for you based on your age, personal health and family history.