The mixed messages over the use of mammograms for breast cancer screening have continued, with a new study suggesting their radiation may harm the women they’re supposed to save.

Dutch researchers have found that women with a family history of breast cancer or a genetic susceptibility to it may increase their risk of cancer by taking mammograms at a young age.

The problem is these are the women who are often told to start taking mammograms early on in their lives as a precautionary measure.

Capitalising on women’s homing device for department stores such as Myers, the NSW Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) is installing free mammogram testing in the lingerie departments of four Sydney department stores.

It is part of a new retail-based plan to help women obtain routine breast cancer examinations.

The clinics will utilise the latest digital screening equipment to reduce examination time and improve accuracy, reporting time and image quality.

The mammogram images will be transmitted to the BCI Breast Centre and read by two doctors.