Breast Cancer Screening Tests and Diagnostic Tools
Screening tests are used to find breast cancer before it causes any warning signs or symptoms. Regular screening tests (along with follow-up tests and treatment if diagnosed) reduce your chance of dying from breast cancer.
Sometimes a screening test finds something abnormal and follow-up is needed. It’s important to get follow-up without delay.
Breast cancer screening tests
- Getting a mammogram
- Findings on a mammogram
- Accuracy of mammograms
- Weighing the risks and benefits of mammography
- Follow-up after an abnormal mammogram
- Low-cost or free mammograms
Summary research tables
Research studies on mammography in women ages 40-49
Research studies on mammography in women ages 50-69
Research studies on 3D mammography for breast cancer screening
Research studies on breast MRI for breast cancer screening for women at higher than average risk
Follow-up tests after an abnormal finding
Follow-up after an abnormal finding on a clinical breast exam
Follow-up after an abnormal finding on a mammogram
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
A biopsy is needed to diagnose breast cancer. A biopsy removes cells or tissue from a suspicious area of the breast. The cells or tissue are studied under a microscope to see if cancer is present.
It’s important to get a biopsy without delay. That way, if you have breast cancer, it can be treated as soon as possible.
Learn more about biopsies and breast cancer diagnosis.
