For any questions:
The program is aimed at women aged 50 to 69 who have never been diagnosed with breast cancer. They are advised to have a screening mammogram every two years.
The invitations are sent by personalized mail, using a list of protected data provided by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec.
Many studies have shown that a screening mammogram can reduce mortality from breast cancer in this specific age group.
For more details about this screening program, please consult the PQDCS website.
A mammogram is a radiological examination that uses X-rays to assess breast tissue.
Mammography remains the most effective and most radiologically sensitive method for detecting anomalies, benign or malignant lesions in the breast.
It allows detection of very small nodules, of a diameter of about 5 millimeters, that are non-palpable under physical examination, as well as microcalcification. The sensitivity of mammography is about 90%. This means that a normal mammogram does not rule out the presence of breast cancer.
During examination, breast compression is uncomfortable, but necessary for the following reasons:
A breast can be compared to a bunch of grapes. The only way to detect a raisin in the center is by spreading the bunch.
It is not recommended to wear a thyroid shield during mammography. Not only is the radiation dose transmitted to the thyroid during a mammogram extremely low, but a shield risks masking important parts of the breast, perhaps making it necessary to repeat the procedure. For more details, visit: Association canadienne des radiologistes (in French only)
It is important for women of every age to pay careful attention to their breasts.
When on the lookout for any changes in their breasts, women should:
Stay attentive to any changes that may occur:
Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that this method does not reduce breast cancer mortality and may result in unnecessary tests.
One in nine women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. It is estimated that 5-10% of breast cancers are hereditary, 15 to 20% are familial.
In other words, the majority of breast cancers are unrelated to family history, rather they are caused by a genetic mutation referred to as sporadic or acquired, i.e. the cell damage is often the result of chance or of certain risk factors such as smoking or obesity.
First, you should be aware that the result of this test only determines whether or not a woman is a carrier of a BRCA mutation, and is used to assess her risk of developing breast cancer. It does not predict whether she will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
Genetic testing is performed on the basis of a blood sample. It detects the presence of a mutation in the genes, such as BRCA genes.
It is compulsory for genetic testing to be preceded by genetic counseling from various oncogenetic specialists. The only access to such counseling is through referral by a physician.
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, discovered in the 1990s, take their name from the words BReast CAncer. These genes, which are present in every cell of every human being, are specialized in controlling cell division, and are a protection against developing breast cancer. If one is born with a mutation in one of these genes, its ability to function well is impaired, and the risk of developing several cancers, including breast cancer, is increased.
Women are generally admitted for genetic testing if they are over 18 years of age and their risk of having a gene mutation is higher than 10%. This risk is assessed by taking the following criteria into account:
For more information on genetic testing, call the Info-cancer Hotline at 1-800-363-0063. A nurse will answer all your questions and let you know whether this test is indicated for you.
Consulter en génétique : cancer du sein ou de l’ovaire. CHU de Québec, Centre des maladies du sein Deschênes-Fabia, Quebec City 2013, 66 pp. Available in electronic format (in French only).
Our newsletter lets you know how we are taking action to better support you in the face of cancer.
See our Data and Privacy Policy.
The head office:
2075 de Champlain Street, Montreal, Quebec H2L 2T1
Phone: 514-527-2194
No charge: 1-877-336-4443
Fax machine: 514-527-1943
E-mail: cancerquebec.mtl@fqc.qc.ca
© QCF — 2023
Web site by Parkour3.com
