Understanding your mammogram results

What if my screening mammogram result is normal? 

You will receive your results in the mail approximately two weeks after your mammogram. Once the results are available, you can also view them on MySaskHealthRecord.  

If the result of your mammogram is normal, you can return to the screening program for a mammogram in two years. If you have a family history of breast cancer or are determined to have dense breasts, you will be asked to return in one year.

What if my screening mammogram result is abnormal? 

Most abnormal mammogram results are due to changes in the breast that are not cancer. Nine out of 10 women who need followup tests do not have cancer. 

If the result of your mammogram is abnormal, you will receive a phone call from your health-care provider or from the BreastCheck nurse navigator.  

The nurse navigator is a registered nurse who will provide you with support and information about your result and the recommended followup tests. With your health-care provider’s permission, the nurse navigator will also arrange for your followup appointments. 

Followup tests

If your screening mammogram result is abnormal, you may need followup tests. These tests can include: 

• A diagnostic mammogram, which is an X-ray that uses special views to see breast tissue more clearly.
• An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to distinguish between a cyst and other breast tissue. 

• Your health-care provider may also do a clinical breast examination. 

   

Your health-care provider will receive the results of your followup tests and help arrange further care if needed. You will need to meet with your health-care provider to get the followup test results and discuss next steps.  

Mammogram results and dense breasts 

Dense breasts refer to the appearance of breast tissue on a mammogram.  

Since breast tissue includes glandular, connective and fatty tissue, breast density refers to the ratio of each type within the breast. Dense breast tissue has more glandular and connective tissue than fatty tissue. 

Dense breast tissue and cancer both display as white on a mammogram, which can make it challenging for the radiologist to read the images. 

How is breast density determined?

Mammogram images determine breast density—it is not something that can be seen or felt. 

 

The radiologist grades density during the reporting of the mammogram using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System.  

• Category A – Almost entirely fatty.
• Category B – Some areas of firmer tissue mixed in.
• Category C – Unevenly dense, which might hide small lumps.
• Category D – Extremely dense, which can make it harder to detect issues with mammograms. 

What does BreastCheck do for women with dense breasts?

If your screening mammogram images show your breast tissue is extremely dense, you will be invited back the following year for a screening mammogram. 

 

Annual screening mammograms help detect small changes in the breast and increase the chance of finding any worrisome changes sooner. 

Where can I find out about my breast density?

All breast density categories are reported on the mammogram radiology reports and are available on MySaskHealthRecord, through your health-care provider or by contacting BreastCheck. 

Can breast density change over time?

Yes. Dense breasts are common, and the density of the breasts tends to change as women age. Additionally, breast density may vary from one screening mammogram to another because the amount of dense tissue can fluctuate over time.