Mammography

Mammographic screenings

Screening programs for the early diagnosis of breast cancer offer women between the ages of 45 and 69 the opportunity to undergo a mammogram every two years, which is an X-ray of the breast that allows for the exclusion of the presence of tumor lesions, even very small ones that cannot be detected through self-examination.

Mammography is the most effective test for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Every year in Friuli Venezia Giulia, about 100,000 women undergo this test.

Read the flyer for more information on breast and cervical cancer screenings.

FAQ

All women residing in Friuli Venezia Giulia who are 45 years old and up to 69 years old are included in the regional mammographic screening program.

Women residing in Friuli Venezia Giulia who are 45 years old or older are invited every two years to undergo mammographic screening.

Women residing in Friuli Venezia Giulia between the ages of 45 and 69 are invited every two years, by letter, to undergo screening at one of the locations covered by the Mobile Unit.

Perhaps the address on your personal data sheet is not updated or there was a problem with the postal delivery. In any case, if you fall within the age range to be included in the screening programs, you can contact the screening office of your health authority.

The mobile unit is positioned in various locations throughout the region: check the section "where to find the mobile unit" further down this page. Each woman can choose the location and date that is most suitable for her to undergo mammographic screening.

By calling the regional call center at 800 000 400, you can change the date and location for your mammogram.

It is a breast X-ray that is performed on both breasts.

The breasts are placed between two plates of the radiographic equipment. The exam lasts a few seconds.

The compression of the breasts lasts a few seconds. Depending on the person's sensitivity, a slight discomfort may be felt.

In the immediate term, there are no risks associated with this exam.

The mammographic screening program has proven to be very effective in reducing the incidence and mortality of breast cancer.

Because in this age group, most breast cancers occur.

Perhaps the phone number on your personal data sheet is not updated or is not listed at all. In any case, if you fall within the age range to be included in the screening programs, the relevant health authority will send you a letter with instructions on how to request to be included in the regional screening program.

In summary

  • Mammography

    It is a mammogram that is performed every two years on women between the ages of 45 and 69.

  • How is a mammogram performed?

    It is a test that allows for two radiographic projections (from above and from the side) of the breasts: therefore, it is a radiographic examination of the breasts.

  • Why haven't they called me?

    Perhaps you have not updated your phone number on the health card. In any case, you will receive a letter at home with instructions on how to join the program.

  • How do I enter the screening program?

    All women between the ages of 45 and 69 residing in Friuli Venezia Giulia are automatically included in the program.

  • And if a positive result is found?

    If the exam highlights questionable images, you will be contacted by the screening center for further investigations.

  • When will the response be received?

    If the test is negative, the results will be sent by letter directly to your home within a few weeks.

  • Are screenings reliable?

    The quality of screening programs is constantly monitored. The equipment is always the most up-to-date and the medical teams are the most informed and experienced.