Hi Kym, not sure if what I have to say is what you a looking for but this is an issue that needs to be addressed in Australia.
Firstly I have alway had good experiences with the people doing my mammograms and ultrasounds. The only complaint I have is that in Australia they seem to be oblivious to dense breast tissue. I had one lady tell me that my 48year old breasts were as good as a 35year olds, I was actually very pleased with this news.
It was only after I was diagnosed with a slow growing 20mm breast cancer that could not be felt by anyone, that I found out that I had very dense breast tissue. My diagnosis of Stage 2 was only six months after an all clear mammogram and ultrasound. I was fortunate that I had a good GP who insisted that I get a second opinion on a fibrodenoma. I have since found out that on my reports it stated breast density obstructs any underlying problems. The ability of mammography is compromised.
The people doing these tests need to tell us this information. All GP 's are interested in is clear or not clear.
Breast density is one of the strongest predictors of failure of mammography screening to detect breast cancer. Women need to be informed of their risks, cancer turns up 5 times more in women with extremely dense breast tissue than those with fatty tissue.
This information needs to start somewhere, perhaps with you Kym and the Radiographers that you will be meeting.
Cheers and all the best,
Viv
