Skip navigation.
  • Print
  • Text Size: Small fonts graphic Medium fonts graphic Large fonts graphic

Results and Further Tests

 
RESULTS 

What happens after I have my mammogram?
If there is no breast concern or problem - you and your health care provider will receive the results in the mail - within two weeks of the exam. You will receive a reminder in the mail when it is time for another mammogram.

About 10 per cent of women will have an abnormal result because of changes seen on their screening mammogram. They will need further tests to find out what the changes are and to determine if treatment is needed. 

What does an abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result means that you need more tests to obtain a better view of your breasts to determine if any treatment is needed. There are several conditions that are not cancerous. They include conditions like cysts, fibroadenomas, or fibrocystic breast tissue. Additional testing helps to determine if any changes should be a concern.

It's important to remember that about nine out of 10 women who are recalled do not have breast cancer.

FURTHER TESTS

If I need further tests, do I have cancer?
No. The majority of women who need further tests will not be found to have breast cancer. However, it is important to have further tests to confirm there is no problem.

What is the process if I need more tests?
If further tests are needed, SMP has a Fast Track system that quickly notifies your doctor and the nearest diagnostic imaging office about your results. You will be called directly by the diagnostic imaging office nearest to you to arrange an appointment.

If I’m Fast Tracked does that mean there is something seriously wrong?
No. SMP recognizes how stressful it can be to wait for follow-up tests. The Fast Track system was developed to speed-up the process of booking further tests. Rather than asking your health care provider to call, the diagnostic imaging office will call you directly to arrange an appointment.Your health care provider is kept informed.

What type of tests will I need? 
Before a definite diagnosis can be reached, you may need additional tests, such as a one or more of the following:
    • Diagnostic mammograms: takes x-rays of the breast area of concern found by the screening mammogram.
    • Ultrasound: uses sound waves to produce an image of the breast area of concern found by the screening mammogram. It does not use radiation.
    • Biopsy: takes a sample of tissue from the breast area of concern found by the screening mammogram.