What is a mammogram, and why should I have one?
A mammogram is a safe, low-dose x-ray of the breast. It is still the best tool we have to find breast cancer early and save lives. All women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every 1-2 years.

What if I notice any changes in my breast?
Mammograms are very useful, but they cannot find all problems.
If you notice a change in your breast like a lump, thickening, or liquid leaking from the nipple, call your doctor or clinic right away.
Many breast changes are not cancer, but only a doctor can know for sure.

How can I be sure I'm getting the best mammogram?
The FDA enforces The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). MQSA is a national law that approves all of the places where you can get a mammogram. This includes:
• Clinics
• Hospitals
• Doctors' offices
• Mammogram vans

The FDA MQSA also makes sure that all of the people who work there have the right training and education, including the people who:
• Test the equipment to make sure it's working.
• Take your mammogram.
• Study your mammogram.

What about my results?
• Your results should be mailed to you in 30 days.
• Call the clinic to ask for them if you do not get them in 30 days.
• If you want a second opinion, or if you change doctors, the law gives you the right to keep original mammograms.

What if I have a major problem with my exam or clinic?
• Talk with the person on staff whose job it is to handle problems and complaints.
• If your clinic cannot help you, do not give up. Find out who approves your clinic. Make sure to get the company name, address, and phone number, and name of a person you can talk to.
• If that does not fix your problem, call the FDA at 1-800-838-7715.

What if I have breast implants?
• When you make your appointment, make sure to say that you have breast implants.
• If the clinic does not accept patients with implants, ask them for the name and phone number of one that does.
• When you get to your appointment, remind the staff that you have implants.
• You will need a person who is trained to x-ray women with implants. Implants can hide breast tissue and make it harder to find problems.

What is digital mammography?
Regular mammograms are viewed on X-ray film. Digital mammograms are viewed on a computer.

Who should think about having digital mammography?
• Women under 50 years old.
• Women with "dense" breasts. (Breasts that have more tissue than fat.)
• Call your clinic or doctor to see if digital mammography is right for you.

Source: FDA's Office of Women's Health 2007 www.fda.gov/womens