How does mammography work?

For a mammogram to be taken, the breast is squeezed and spread out between two hard, flat plates. The mammogram then produces black and white X-ray images of the breast which can be displayed on a computer screen and assessed by an expert in breast cancer.

Mammograms are very accurate but can still sometimes miss cancer. Therefore, all women are advised to have a clinical breast exam (CBE) in which the appearance and feel of the breasts is checked by a healthcare provider who is trained in breast examination.

During a CBE, the armpits are also checked for the presence of lumps and other changes. Women should have a clinical breast exam every 3 years starting from the age of 20 years and every year after the age of 40.