Health Canada. Questions & answers on breast cancer: a guide for women and their physicians • Download this booklet in English (540 KB)

If my letter says I need more tests, what should I do?

It is important to know that about 9 out of every 10 women who go for extra tests will not have breast cancer. Extra tests are a part of routine screening. Benign (not cancer) breast changes are the most common reason for abnormal results.

Women who require extra tests will receive more information with their letter or over the phone. Further testing is arranged in two ways:

• By your doctor or
• With your doctor's permission, the screening program will make the appointment for you. We will contact you by phone with an appointment date and time.

What tests will I need to have?

Most women will need either:

• A diagnostic mammogram or
• An ultrasound.

A diagnostic mammogram is used to take a closer look at an area of concern.

• It uses extra pressure to thin out a small area of breast tissue to see it more clearly.
• It can magnify an area of breast tissue to see it more clearly.

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of your breast. An ultrasound can tell the difference between cysts (harmless pockets filled with fluid), and other kinds of abnormal (not normal) lumps.

Where do I get these tests in Manitoba?

You may be referred to one of the following places:

Winnipeg:

• WRHA Breast Health Centre
• Health Sciences Centre
• Manitoba X-ray Clinic
• Radiology Consultants of Winnipeg
• St Boniface General Hospital

Brandon:

• Brandon Regional Health Centre

Dauphin:

• Dauphin Health Centre (ultra sound only)

Thompson:

• Thompson General Hospital

Winkler/Morden:

• Boundary Trails Health Centre

After more tests most women will have normal results and can return to the program for their next screening appointment.

But what happens if my extra tests are not normal?

A small number of women will need a biopsy. A biopsy removes a small piece of breast tissue for testing. There are three main types of biopsies:

• An ultrasound core biopsy uses a needle to remove tissue for testing when a lump can be felt or seen on an ultrasound.
• A stereotactic core biopsy uses a needle to remove tissue when an area is seen only on a mammogram.
• A surgical biopsy is done by a surgeon who removes a small piece of breast tissue in the operating room or clinic.

What if my follow-up tests find cancer?

Your doctor will receive these results and help to arrange your care.

No one wants to find out they have breast cancer. Detecting it early gives you a better chance for simpler treatment and cure.

Please call the Breast Screening Program if you need more information or have any concerns.

• Winnipeg 788-8000
• Brandon 726-2453
• Long Distance 1-800-903-9290

Where can I get more information about breast health or breast cancer?

CancerCare Manitoba Breast Cancer Centre of Hope » click here
691 Wolseley Avenue
Winnipeg MB R3G 1C3

Call 788-8080 or 1-888-660-4866.

Purpose:

The centre helps anyone who has breast concerns or whose life has been touched by breast cancer. They provide information, support, and referral. This can be done by telephone or in-person. You can:

• meet with the nurse to help you understand tests and recommendations
• be referred to the peer support volunteers
• be referred to professional counselling
• visit the lending library
• find information pamphlets
• ask about the used prosthesis bank
• receive their newsletter
• find out about services and support networks in rural and northern Manitoba.