Breast cancer screening saves lives—and we’re seeing the proof. Over the past several decades, death rates from breast cancer have steadily declined, thanks to earlier detection and better treatments.
One of the most effective tools we have is mammography. A mammogram is a simple X-ray that looks inside the breast tissue and can detect changes long before they can be felt. Finding cancer early often means more treatment options, less aggressive care, and better outcomes.
There are two main types of mammograms. Screening mammograms are done when there are no symptoms and can help catch cancer early. Diagnostic mammograms are used when there’s a concern such as a lump or other change. Regular screening is especially important because it allows healthcare providers to compare images over time and spot even small changes.
Most screening mammograms are done for women, typically starting at about age 40, though recommendations may vary. Men don’t usually need routine screening mammograms but if they are at a higher risk such as with certain genetic factors, they may benefit from a screening mammogram.
Mayfair Diagnostics recommends patients have a screening mammogram every year from age 40 to 49, then every two years between age 50 and 75, if there are no risks factors that would necessitate a shorter interval. After age 75, screening frequency will depend on several factors, including your medical history.
Mayfair’s recommendations for breast screening are aligned with the Canadian Association of Radiologists.
When considering breast screening, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the potential risks. The two main concerns are radiation exposure and overdiagnosis.
Mammograms use a very small amount of radiation—about the same as what you’re naturally exposed to over six months. For most women, this risk is very low, especially compared to the benefits of detecting cancer early.
Sometimes screening finds cancers that would not have caused harm. This can lead to unnecessary treatment or stress from false positives. Current research estimates this happens in about 10% of cases.
However, studies also show that not participating in screening can increase the risk of dying from breast cancer by up to 60%.
The bottom line is that for many women, the benefits of regular screening outweigh the risks.
Early detection is the main goal of breast cancer screening. When cancer is found through imaging before it can be felt—such as before a lump develops—it is often smaller and easier to treat. Detecting cancer at an early stage can allow for less invasive treatment, including the possibility of breast-conserving surgery. In many cases, smaller cancers may also reduce the need for treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. These include having a personal history of breast or ovarian cancer, or having one or more first-degree relatives (such as a parent, sibling, or child) who have been diagnosed with these conditions. Risk is also higher for individuals who carry certain gene mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, or who have a first-degree relative with these mutations. In addition, women who received radiation therapy to the chest before age 30 or within the past eight years may have an increased risk.
Individuals with these risk factors are considered at higher risk and may benefit from starting screening earlier and undergoing it more frequently.
Increasingly, breast density is being recognized as a significant risk factor. Dense breast tissue refers to how it appears on the mammogram based on the mix of fatty and fibrous tissue. Density is not related to breast size. Women with very dense breasts may require a more personalized screening approach than what is recommended for the general population. This may include both mammography and ultrasound exams to get a more fulsome view of the breast tissue.
A mammogram takes just 15 minutes and can offer lasting peace of mind. This quick screening plays an important role in detecting breast cancer early—often before symptoms appear—helping you take a proactive step toward your health.
Screening recommendations can vary, but the decision is ultimately yours. Understanding the benefits and risks of mammograms and discussing your personal and family history with your doctor, can help you choose what’s right for you.
Mayfair Diagnostics offers screening mammograms at 14 Calgary-area clinics using Senographe Pristina technology, which provides a more comfortable experience, including patient-assisted compression that lets you adjust pressure under the technologist’s guidance. Visit our breast imaging page for more information.
Alberta Health Services “Breast Screening.” www.screeningforlife.ca. Accessed March 26, 2026.
Canadian Association of Radiologists CAR-Breast-Disease-Referral-Guideline.pdf. Accessed March 26, 2026
Canadian Cancer Society “Breast cancer statistics.” www.cancer.ca. Accessed March 26, 2026.
Dense Breasts Canada What are the facts about radiation and mammograms? | Dense Breasts Canada Accessed March 26, 2026
Tabar, L., et al. (2019) “The incidence of fatal breast cancer measures the increased effectiveness of therapy in women participating in mammography screening.” Cancer. Accessed March 26, 2026.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
