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Other Screening Methods
Other Screening Methods
Is digital mammography better than film?
Digital and film provide the same standard of care. Digital mammography is a technique that uses a computer rather than film to record x-ray images of the breasts. The digital image is displayed on a high-resolution computer screen for optimum viewing.
Both digital and film still capture the breast images with x-rays and the breasts still need to be compressed to ensure a clear image of the breast tissue is obtained.
Over time, all SMP centres will become digital so that we can eliminate the use of chemicals needed to develop x-ray film. In addition, it is easier to transfer mammogram results by computer rather than shipping film.
What's the difference between a diagnostic mammogram and a screening mammogram?
Screening mammograms are for women with no apparent breast problems. Diagnostic mammograms are ordered by a doctor to look at an area of concern in the breast; which may lead to more tests; such as an ultrasound or a biopsy.
Does SMP use Thermography?
Thermography is not recommended for a population-based screening program such as SMP because no study has shown it to be an effective screening tool for breast cancer. Thermography has a high false-positive rate and could lead to unnecessary tests.