What is a Breast Test and Why do we go? Section 1 What is a Breast Test and Why do we go? Version 5 – October 2013

Who goes for this test? All women between the age of 50 and 70 are invited Invitation letters are sent out every three years Section 1 - Page 1

What happens if I am over 70? If you are over 70 you can still come for breast screening. You can ring Breast Test Wales and ask for an appointment Section 1 - Page 2

Why is it important to go for a breast test? Breast cancer can affect any woman but is more common in a woman over 50 The test looks for cancer If we find breast cancer early, treatment has the best chance of working Section 1 - Page 3

What is the test called? The test is called a Mammogram The test looks for breast cancer before symptoms show An X-ray of your breast is taken One breast will be X-rayed first, then the other Section 1 - Page 4

What is Cancer? Cancer is a very serious illness which could get worse if not treated There are different types of cancer Some people who get cancer die Lots of people who get breast cancer get better Section 1 - Page 5

Breast Cancer Breast Cancer is the most common type of cancer found in women Some breast cancers can spread to other parts of the body The best way of testing for breast cancer is by having a regular breast test Source: Cancer Research UK Section 1 - Page 6

What is an X-ray? It is like a photograph It shows doctors what is happening inside your breast It shows them things that you may not be able to see or feel Section 1 - Page 7

Will the test hurt? You may find the test uncomfortable It may hurt for a short time Your breast may be a little bit red or sore after the X-ray Section 1 - Page 8