Carla Cann talks about the new mammography wing at KEMH and the part which she plays.

"My role in the new wing of the mammography unit is firstly to oversee the daily functions of our unit. Secondly to serve my patients to the best of my ability, by giving them the best mammogram possible. Last, but not least, to educate my patients and the public about Breast Health Awareness.

In order to perform mammograms, one must first become a registered Radiologic Technologist. An additional year of training must be undertaken in mammography, then an examination to be a registered mammographer or a certificate in mammography, 3 years total.

On the day of the appointment it is important that the patient does not wear any deodorant, lotion or powder on the breast or under the arms. These things will make the mammogram `unclear' for the Radiologist. We recommend that the patient wear a two piece outfit.

During the procedure the patient must undress from the waist up.

A plastic shield or `arm ' of the mammography unit will press firmly against the breast tissue to flatten it. Then the x-ray is taken. This may be slightly uncomfortable, this should not hurt.

To ensure all the breast tissue is seen, two x-rays are taken. One picture is taken from the top, the other is taken fro the side.

The films are checked by the technologist then the Radiologist while the patients wait.

The procedure takes 20-30 mins.

The recommendation from the American Cancer Society include: Monthly self-examination for women 20 and older.

Breast exams by a health professional every three years for women 20-40, and every year for women over 40.

Regular mammogram: a mammogram every one to two years between ages 40 and 49 and every year after age 60.

We see an average of 200 patients a month.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is when an a symptomatic woman (a women with no breast problems) comes and has a routine mammogram, because of the quality of mammogram that is done, a very small carcinoma is found. Since it had been detected early the patient's life is saved. I have then played an important part in saving someone's life in the fight against breast cancer.

Early Detection, Early Detection, Early Detection.

Breast cancer cannot be prevented, but it can certainly be cured through early detection.'' Dr. Sydney Lowry, oncologist, says the new mammography equipment is helping save the lives of women with breast cancer through early detection.