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A mammogram can detect small abnormalities and changes that may be early breast cancer. Below are some of the abnormalities that can be detected by mammography:

Calcifications are tiny calcium deposits within the breast tissue. Calcifications are classified as microcalcifications or macrocalcifications.

Microcalcifications are tiny(less than 0.5mm) flecks of calcium in the breast. When many microcalcifications are seen in one area, they are referred to as a cluster and may indicate a small cancer. Microcalcifications are the most common mammographic sign of ductal carcinoma in situ however, in the majority of cases, these flecks of calcium are due to benign breast changes

Macrocalcifications are coarse calcium deposits. They are often seen in both breasts. Macrocalcifications usually are not signs of cancer and are most likely due to aging, old injuries, or inflammations; however, many clusters of macrocalcifications in one area may be an early sign of breast cancer.

Masses can also be detected by mammography. Masses can be caused by benign breast conditions or by cancer and are sometimes associated with calcifications. Masses can also be cysts, which are benign collections of fluid in the breast.

Breast ultrasound or needle aspiration is required to determine if a mass is a cyst. Masses that are not cysts may need to be biopsied or monitored periodically with mammography.

Mammography cannot determine whether an abnormal area is cancer, but it can provide guidance for further screening or diagnostic tests. Results of mammograms are reported using a standardized system developed by the American College of Radiology. Findings are assigned a number from 0 to 5, according to their significance. This system is called the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS).

Before 1986 there were no regulating standards for mammography facilities and healthcare professionals were concerned about the inconsistent standards of quality among mammography facilities. In an effort to improve quality, safety, and consistency in mammography and to ensure that low radiation doses are used, the American College of Radiology (ACR) started the first national Mammography Accreditation Program (MAP) in 1986. This program was administered on a voluntary basis from 1986 until 1992, when Congress passed the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA). Under this act, the Food and Drug Administration must certify each mammography facility, except those of the Department of Veteran Affairs. Certification is based on accreditation by the ACR or the states of Illinois, South Carolina, or Iowa.

In 1994, the MQSA was amended to require that mammography facilities mail women a separate, easily understood report of their results within 30 days of the mammogram. If the results suggest that cancer could be present, the facility is required to provide notification sooner than 30 days. This amendment was passed to assure that all women are notified of any suspicious results in a timely manner.

Mammography facilities are available in most areas of the United States. In some areas, mobile mammography facilities are available to women who have difficulty traveling to a clinic or who live in remote areas. Low cost mammograms are also available in most areas.

There are a number of ways to locate a mammography facility in your area:

• Contact your local health department to find the names and locations of mammography facilities in your community.



• Call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 for information about facilities in your area.



• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a geographic listing of FDA certified facilities. If you would like to see a listing of FDA-certified facilities in your area, please click here.

This website provides general information only. A physician should be contacted if you need any medical advice or if medical decisions need to be made.