More information on breast cancer screening
According to the 2019 National Cancer Registry (NCR) report, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of all races in South Africa, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 25.
Breast cancer screening is a way to check the breasts for early signs of cancer in people who have no symptoms of breast cancer. The goal of breast cancer screening is to find cancer early, before it has a chance to grow, spread or cause problems. Studies show that early detection of the disease can greatly improve your chance of survival.
The best test used to screen for breast cancer is called a mammogram. A mammogram is a type of specialized x-ray of the breast. Generally screening should start at the age of 40. The frequency is dependent on your risk profile, but a mammogram should be done at least every second year. Some risk factors for breast cancer are a family history of breast / ovarian/ prostate cancer. Being overweight, inactive, consuming alcohol, poor dietary habits, smoking and exposure to chemicals can also increase your lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
Generally screening should start at the age of 40. The frequency is dependent on your risk profile but a mammogram should be done at least every second year. Some risk factors for breast cancer are a family history of breast/ ovarian/ prostate cancer. Being overweight, inactive, consuming alcohol, poor dietary habits, smoking and exposure to chemicals also increase risk. Your doctor and medical scheme can assist to decide on the frequency suitable to you.
Your doctor and medical scheme can assist to decide on the frequency suitable for you. There will be no additional costs for medical scheme members.
What will happen during the mammogram?
You will undress from the waist up and put on a gown that opens in the front. You will stand in front of the X-ray machine and be asked by the technician to hold certain positions. To make the breast tissue easier to see from all angles, the technician will flatten each breast between 2 plastic or glass plates or panels. The plates will compress your breast for a few seconds. Try to stay as relaxed as possible during the procedure. This does not cause any harm to your breasts and any discomfort you may experience will be very brief. X-rays are taken from different angles of each breast. Each breast is typically X-rayed twice, once from the top down and once from side-to-side. This is so the radiologist can get a good look at all the breast tissue.
We recommend that on the day of your appointment you do not use any underarm deodorant, creams or powder which could show up as white spots on the imaging. You may be more comfortable wearing an outfit consisting of two separate pieces (e.g. skirt/pants with a separate top) so that you can keep the bottom half on during the procedure.
What Are The Risks?
Generally, this is a safe procedure. However, problems may occur, including:
- Exposure to radiation. Radiation levels are very low with this test.
- The results being misinterpreted.
- The need for further tests.
- The inability of the mammogram to detect certain cancers.
What Happens After The Procedure?
- The mammogram will be examined by a specialist (radiologist).
- You may need to repeat certain parts of the test, depending on the quality of the images. This is commonly done if the radiologist needs a better view of the breast tissue.
- You may resume your normal activities.
- It is up to you to get the results of your procedure. Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the procedure, when your results will be ready.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.