A new type of technology that has been shown to improve breast cancer detection rates by up to 50% is now available in Ireland for the first time.

Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is a new type of mammogram technology, which allows the breast to be examined in 3D. Current mammogram technology only allows this in 2D.

With DBT, the breast can be imaged in multiple thin slices, rather than just one single image. This allows for better visualisation, especially when it comes to dense tissue or cases where there is an increased risk of breast cancer.

Bon Secours Hospital Cork has confirmed that it will be the first Irish location to offer DBT. In relation to breast cancer, the hospital currently deals with around 4,500 women every year. These attend screening and symptomatic breast care clinics.

According to the hospital, DBT will be offered to all women who require a mammogram. Where women opt to avail of this new technology, it will be carried out in conjunction with a standard mammogram. This will take only an extra few minutes.

"The introduction of DBT at the hospital represents a significant advancement in the diagnosis of breast cancer. This technology allows for improved mammographic assessment of breast tissue, which is key to accurate and earlier diagnosis of breast cancer. This additional imaging is done at the same time as a regular mammogram with minimum impact on the person being examined," commented consultant radiologist at the hospital, Dr Vincent McDermott.

Meanwhile, according to the hospital's manager, Harry Canning, the introduction of DBT puts the facility ‘at the forefront of breast cancer diagnostics in Ireland'.

"We are proud to be the first facility in the country to make this potentially life-saving technology available to women. An estimated three million women will be screened using DBT in America this year and we are delighted that the Bon Secours Hospital Cork will be the first centre in the Republic of Ireland to offer this," he said.