Mammogram (Early Detection of Breast Cancer)

· Those planning to have breast cancer detection in Singapore.
· Those with family history of breast cancer and aged 40 years and above.
· Those with developing signs of breast cancer.
· Those who wish to detect breast cancer early and make arrangement for suitable treatment.

Mammogram captures an X-ray image of your breast and it is often used to look for early signs of breast cancer. According to studies, regular mammograms are considered as the best plan for early detection of breast cancer, as it could find cancerous tumor up to 3 years before anyone can experience any pain or showing any signs.

Typical mammogram procedure is as follows:

1. You will be asked to stand in front of a special X-ray machine
2. A technologist will assist you and place your breast on a clear plastic plate
3. While the X-ray is being taken, another plate will press your breast from above
4. Steps are repeated to have different angles of view

Mammogram can be done in different ways. They are as listed below:

· Unilateral / Single
Single diagnostic mammograms only examine 1 side of your breast

· Bilateral
Bilateral diagnostic mammograms take images of both breasts

· Tomosynthesis
Similar to mammograms, only more advanced as the X-ray tube moves in an arc over the compressed breast to capture multiple images of each breast from multiple views. The image will then be reconstructed into a set of 3D image.

· Additional
It is fairly normal for you to get called back after a mammogram and it doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer. Sometimes, it just means that more images need to be captured for a closer look at specific concern area.

<Advantages>
· Detects cancers early
· Possible treatment without chemotherapy
· Accurate and reliable results
· Safe procedure

<Limitations>
· Not suitable for those who are pregnant

· Best if you could schedule your checkup not on the week before your period or during your period
· Do not wear deodorant, perfume or powder as it could affect the image
· If possible, wear something easy for you to undress from waist up and avoid wearing a dress
· If your pain threshold is very low, consider an over-the-counter pain medication like aspirin and have it about 1 hr before the mammogram

Q1: Will it hurt?
A1: To some, it may cause a slight discomfort while to some others, it may hurt. If you think you could not stand the pain, you can take over-the-counter medication about 1 hr before the checkup.

Q2: When will I get the results?
A2: You would usually be called to be informed of the results within 1 - 3 weeks.

Q3: What if my mammogram turns out normal?
A3: That is good but it would be best if you continue to get mammograms according to recommended time intervals. It can work best when compared to the previous ones.

Q4: What is my mammogram turns out abnormal?
A4: If it is abnormal, it doesn't necessarily indicate the presence of cancer but that will require you to go for additional tests to confirm your case.

[Clinic Name] Concord International Hospital
[Location] Singapore
[Nearest Station/ Nearest Tourist Destination] 5 mins distance to Coronation Shopping Plaza and Serene Centre Shopping Mall; takes about 7 to 11 mins walking distance to the nearest bus stop
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Sunday (Open 24 hrs)