Preventative care: Mammogram benefit

Mammography is the process of using low-energy X-rays to examine the human breast, which is used as a diagnostic and screening tool. A mammography examination, called a mammogram, assists with the early detection of breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms (screening mammogram) as well as those who present a lump or any other signs of the disease (diagnostic mammogram). Signs may include breast pain, thickening of the breast skin, nipple discharge or a change in breast size/shape.

The early detection of breast cancer by performing a screening mammogram means that treatment can start as early as possible before the cancer has spread. Mammograms are recommended for younger women who have symptoms of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease.

Risks associated with a screening mammogram include:

• false - positive results
• false - negative results
• over-diagnosis and overtreatment
• radiation exposure

Please note: In 2016 GEMS will fund one screening mammogram every year from the preventative screening benefit for female beneficiaries aged 40 - 74 years.