Should a mammogram be the only breast imaging option for women?

Often women are warned by their doctor or breast specialist against any breast cancer screening technology other than a mammogram on the basis that a mammogram is the only ‘proven’ breast cancer screening method. One reason a mammogram is the only proven breast cancer screening method is because there is very strong resistance to supporting clinical trials comparing other technologies. Safe Breast Imaging is actively seeking opportunities to participate in clinical trials and has an extensive database to contribute to such a trial.

Mammograms are a useful tool to identify suspicious masses at an early stage (up to 5cm). We are fortunate to have a free national breast cancer screening program in Australia (BreastScreen) for women over 40 and under 70 who have NO SYMPTOMS. However statistics show that nearly half of women specifically targeted for a free screening mammogram (50-69 years) choose not to have one.

More than a quarter of Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer are under 50. Premenopausal women (under 50ish) usually have dense breast tissue and a mammogram is less effective for this group.

While few women in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, most women have breast symptoms that are not breast cancer. Women of all ages are increasingly seeking ways to proactively monitor and understand their general breast health beyond just looking for cancer. The MEM looking at the electrical properties of breast tissue, has been a beneficial breast health monitoring technology to many Australian women. The MEM identifies lumps, hormonal imbalance and early behavioural changes that may require further investigation.

When a mammogram is not a woman’s preferred breast imaging option and for women who are ineligible for a mammogram, we believe women deserve other options. This is why Safe Breast Imaging actively promotes worthwhile initiatives for you to proactively monitor and maintain your breast health.

A picture of your breast health will assist you and your health professional to make informed decisions about an effective strategy to manage your hormonal and breast health.