FAQ Overview

What is a screening mammogram?

A mammogram is a low dose X-ray of a woman’s breasts. Screening mammograms are performed on women with no symptoms to detect breast cancer at an early stage.

How is a mammogram taken?

Each breast is gently compressed between two plates for about 10-15 seconds while the X-ray is being taken.

Do mammograms cure cancer?

No, a mammogram screens the breast to detect cancer. However, in women aged 50-69, screening mammography is the best way of detecting cancers that are too small to feel, which is when treatment can be more effective.

If women regularly perform Breast Self Examination, why do they need to have a screening mammogram?

Breast Self Examination (BSE) enables a woman to become familiar and notice any changes.

By performing BSE you will not usually detect cancers smaller than a grape. Regular BSE is useful, however it is not an alternative to screening mammography. The NSW Breast Cancer Institute recommends all women perform breast self examination monthly, and women aged 50 and over should call 13 20 50 (in Australia) to book a screening mammogram.

At what age should women start having screening mammograms?

A woman’s risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Seventy per cent of breast cancers are found in women over 50.

For this reason, BreastScreen NSW encourages women to start regular two-yearly screening mammograms at the age of 50.

Why are women over 40 also eligible for screening mammography?

Currently the scientific evidence for women aged 40-50 or over 70 is not strong enough to recommend regular screening mammography as an effective tool for detecting early breast cancer. As such government funding is limited for this age group. Nevertheless, women in these age groups may request a free screening mammogram at BreastScreen NSW.

However, women with a family history or a breast symptom can have a mammogram partly or fully funded through Medicare. Please see your local doctor.

Why aren't women under 40 eligible for free screening?

Currently there is no research that suggests regular screening mammography of women under the age of 40 can detect early breast cancer. This is because the breast tissue in these women is more dense, making mammograms very difficult to read and cancers very difficult to detect.Women under 40 should perform regular Breast Self Examination and see their doctor immediately if they notice any change including unusual lumps, pain or fluid oozing from the nipple, or if they are concerned about their individual risk of developing breast cancer.

Why have a mammogram every two years?

Two yearly screening mammograms are the best way for women over 50 to find breast cancer early, before there are any signs or symptoms. This offers a better chance of successful treatment and recovery for women in this age group.Women with a family history may be advised to have yearly mammograms.

Where do I go for a free mammogram?

To have your free mammogram call 13 20 50. You will be booked into your nearest BreastScreen service. BreastScreen NSW is coordinated by the NSW Breast Cancer Institute. There are 10 screening and assessment services in NSW which offer free mammograms at over 190 locations.

When are we going to get a mammogram machine that does not hurt?

To obtain the best quality mammogram and, with it, the highest chance of detecting any abnormality it is necessary for the breast to be compressed. Some discomfort is inevitable but the procedure should not be truly painful. If it is you should request the radiographer to reduce the amount of compression.

Why doesn't everyone have ultrasound and mammography as some tumours are normal mammographically but detected on ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a poor screening test in a woman who has no symptoms but is a very useful complementary test when used with mammography in a woman who has symptoms, a swelling in the breast or an abnormality detected by a screening mammogram. It is therefore usual for a doctor to decide whether an ultrasound is likely to contribute further having examined the mammograms which have been taken.