Mammogram Report Conclusion 92% of the mammograms done were either normal or had benign findings. This figure is similar to the 2001(92%) and 2002 (91.2%) mammogram report findings. Only 4% were in the indeterminate group, while 2% were slightly suspicious and only 1% was highly suspicious. Of those that were highly suspicious – 2 eventually proved to be cancer on tissue sampling (biopsy).  | A spot view of a cancer seen on a mammogram |
Proven Breast Cancers (on Tissue Diagnosis)
Two participants were proven to have breast cancer. Both were Chinese, one at 79 years had a mastectomy while the 57 year old had breast conserving surgery (only the area of the cancer with some surrounding breast tissue was removed and not the whole breast) to be followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. One had no risk factors for breast cancer. The 57 year old lady had just menopause at 56 years and had no children (nulliparous). These are considered risk factors for breast cancer – a late menopause and nulliparity. Follow-through with Recommended Treatment Important
”When I hear of direct sales medication, it makes me angry. I was influenced to use alternative medicine and my breast cancer recurred within 8 months of surgery” – Mdm Tong. Our target group was achieved in this year’s programme – the 40-69year age group. The Chinese made up the majority of those who accessed the service even though the demographics wise, the Malays make up the biggest proportion of the population. This could be due to increased awareness amongst this ethnic group or that the urban areas (where the mammogram centres are located) tend to have a higher proportion of Chinese. This may be a fortunate trend as the incidence of breast cancer is highest amongst the Chinese in Malaysia. We note that it is important that those diagnosed with breast cancer follow through with the treatment. Mdm Tong’s situation as described in the initial section of this report is just one of the many we encounter in medical practice and may be totally avoidable. That is why the College emphasises the education campaign and not just a mammogram or a self breast check campaign. Breast cancer awareness involves all aspects including the psychosocial aspects as well as treatment aspects. We have received feedback where women praised the programme for saving their lives because they heard the proactive breast health messages in the media and began to take charge of their breast health. They either found their breast lump and went to see their doctor or as in the case of Mdm SL Ang, at her first mammogram during the 2004 mammogram programme – discovered her breast cancer.
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