Mammography: an essential screening for women’s health

Autumn is a season of transition: days grow shorter, temperatures soften, and the mood invites a slower pace. It is also a good time to pay special attention to your health. With the arrival of Pink October, the month dedicated to breast cancer awareness, mammography stands out as a key preventive measure.

At Radiméd, we believe every woman deserves not only access to advanced technology but also compassionate, human-centered support. Our goal is to demystify this exam, help reduce the anxiety it may cause, and remind everyone that early detection can truly save lives.

Pink October and breast cancer prevention

Why early detection can save lives

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in Quebec and across Canada. Yet the data are clear: when detected early, five-year survival often exceeds 90%. At an early stage, treatments are generally less invasive and better tolerated, which can improve quality of life for patients.

What is a mammogram and what can it detect?

Mammography is a specialized X-ray exam that captures detailed images of the breast using low doses of radiation. Unlike a clinical breast exam, it can reveal abnormalities that are not detectable by touch.

It can help detect:

  • Microcalcifications : tiny calcium deposits that may be an early sign of cancer.

  • Masses or tumors: whether benign or malignant, their shape and edges provide valuable clues to the radiologist.

  • Architectural distortions: changes in the normal structure of breast tissue that may indicate an underlying issue.

At Radiméd, our digital systems and tomosynthesis (3D mammography) provide optimal image quality while keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably possible.

How does a mammogram work?

Preparation and what to expect

The exam usually takes less than 15 minutes. The breast is positioned on the mammography plate, then gently compressed by a transparent paddle for a few seconds. This compression flattens the breast tissue to reduce radiation dose, limit motion, and obtain clear images. This step can be uncomfortable, but it is necessary for image accuracy. The images are then reviewed by a radiologist, who sends a report to your treating physician.

In some cases, additional tests (ultrasound, follow-up mammogram, or biopsy) may be recommended to clarify the diagnosis. Most observed abnormalities are not cancerous.

Recommended frequency and prevention tips

In Quebec, the Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) invites women aged 50 to 74 to have a mammogram every two years. For its part, the Canadian Cancer Society urges provinces and territories to lower the eligibility age to 40 for people at average risk of the disease within their breast cancer screening programs. In all cases, the age to start screening and the frequency may vary based on personal or family history, and it is recommended to discuss this with a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle habits and proactive prevention

Screening plays an important role, and it can also be part of a broader, whole-health approach. Certain lifestyle habits are often associated with better overall balance and could help reduce some risk factors:

  • opt for a varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and fiber;

  • engage in regular physical activity, ideally spread throughout the week;

  • aim to maintain a healthy weight, particularly after menopause;

  • limit alcohol and tobacco use.

Breast self-awareness

Learning to recognize your breasts’ usual look and feel is a simple habit that can help you notice changes sooner. If you have concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.

Choose Radiméd: for professional expertise with a human touch

Radiméd provides access to advanced technology, including digital mammography, tomosynthesis (3D), ultrasound, and breast MRI. Our team’s approach is to support each person with care and attention, which may help reduce the anxiety often associated with this exam.

Our neighborhood clinics

With clinics located in Montreal, Westmount, Vaudreuil-Dorion, Valleyfield, Pierrefonds, and the West Island, Radiméd helps make screening accessible to many women across Quebec.

👉 Book an appointment with us today and make prevention a priority.

References:

Canadian Cancer Society: https://cancer.ca

Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/advice-and-prevention/screening-and-carrier-testing-offer/quebec-breast-cancer-screening-program