The primary aim of this study is to find out whether the breast x-ray machine used in digital mammography is as good as or better than the machine used in standard mammography. We are trying to determine if this new technology is able to detect breast cancer more accurately than the standard method.

From the patient's perspective, a digital mammography examination is similar to the traditional mammography examination. Positioning and compression of the breast are identical. From the radiologist's perspective, digital mammography is different in that it records images on a computer instead of on film. The recorded data can be enhanced, magnified, or manipulated for further evaluation.

If you agree to participate in this study, you will have both a standard and a digital mammography examination. Each will require 2 views per breast, eight views altogether. For some women, especially those with large breasts, additional digital and screen-film mammograms may be taken to assure that all portions of the breast are included.

The same certified radiologic technologist will conduct both of these exams. Each examination will be interpreted independently by a board-certified radiologist with special expertise in mammography.

The risks involved in this study are low. You will receive a small amount of radiation in addition to the minimal amount received in the standard mammography. There is also the risk that the study will falsely indicate an abnormality that could cause unnecessary anxiety and/or extra procedures to be performed.

If you choose to participate in this study, we ask that you return in one year for your annual mammogram. A standard screening mammogram will be taken as would be performed as part of routine health care. If you are not able to return to the same site in one year, then we request that you submit films from another institution for our review. If you enroll in the study, we may also contact you by telephone during the 2 to 3 years after your exam to see if you have had normal mammograms and clinical breast exams.