Breast Cancer Screening Test
What is breast cancer screening?
Breast screening uses X-rays to look for breast cancers when they're too small to be seen or felt.
The earlier breast cancer is found, the more successful the treatment.
Appointments take place at the Mammography Unit at the Enid Quenault Health and Wellbeing Centre.
Register for breast screening:
You need to register online for breast screening if you're a woman aged 50 to 69.
You don't get automatically invited when you turn 50.
Routine breast screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice any changes in your breasts that worry you, contact your GP as soon as possible.
What happens on the day?
Check in at reception and bring your completed questionnaire.
Before your mammogram:
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you will be asked to remove your bra, but keep your top on
During your mammogram:
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you will be asked you to remove your top
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places 1 breast at a time between 2 plates on the machine
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presses firmly for a few seconds so they can take a clear image
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takes 2 images of each breast
When the mammogram is finished:
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you'll have privacy and time to get dressed
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some find the test uncomfortable but it usually passes quickly
What about my results?
You should receive your results by email or post within 2 to 4 weeks of your appointment.
Normal result
Most women get a normal screening result meaning their mammogram shows no sign of cancer.
Abnormal result
Around 4 in every 100 women have an abnormal result and are called back for more tests. This happens more often for women having their first mammogram as we don't have other mammograms to compare with.
Further tests might include:
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another mammogram
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an ultrasound scan
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a biopsy