Hi,

I am new to this online community and am glad there are resources and people available who may answer a question I have that has been troubling me.

Since 2005, I have had 3 bilateral ultrasounds at Princess Margaret. The findings were benign cysts. Since I have not been in awhile, my family doctor sent a requisition form to the hospital requesting another bilateral ultrasound. I am now 30 years old and when the breast screening centre called to advise me of my appointment, I was told it was for a mammogram and that it is now policy for anyone 30yrs and older to have a mammogram completed prior to having an ultrasound.

I have looked online and cannot find any resources that state this age requirement. Is there anyone who can provide me with further information on this?

Any help on this would be much appreciated.

Thank you,

30strong

   Email me new posts to this topic.

Hi 30 strong
I believe there is no absolute in terms of age for mammograms. My resources recommend a baseline between 35-40 ( and yearly). A lot depends on family history. (mother, sister first degree relative with a history of the disease.
It would be wise for you to ask your doctor about your specific case. My understanding is that younger people can have more dense breast tissue which can be more difficult to read.
A genetic councelor could help you sort out your risks.
Considering your history i would think it is a wise decision to have a mammogram but again I would talk to my doctor.

Take care, jennifer p

   Email me new posts to this topic.

Hi 30 strong. Your question in not uncommon. Usually women are not getting mammos until age 40. Your situation is one where you are getting benign cysts so its good they are carefully monitoring your breasts for any changes or unusual signs of any change that would need further investigation. Altrasounds and mammograms provide a different image that will help them monitor your breasts. Sometimes they will also suggest an MRI as well. With a history of problematic cysts it would make sense.

Each hospital is a little different. The reason for the mammogram could be for diagnostic reasons for screening. Related to any familial history of breast cancer. It could be a change in policy for Princess Margaret Hospital or the Ontario Breast Screening Programs which is part of the clinic at PMH.

Rest assured they are monitoring you so closely. The best defence is early detection if there was anything that showed up. I hope this is helpful.

I think its also important to be active in asking your treatment team any questions that will provide clarity for you.

All my best

Scott Secord MSW RSW
Manager, Breast Cancer Survivorship Program

   Email me new posts to this topic.