Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancers. About one in eight (12 percent) of women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime.
Early Detection Is Best
A mammogram is an X-ray exam of the breast used to detect and evaluate breast changes, including those associated with cancer. The American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms beginning at age 40. These guidelines are for women at average risk for breast cancer. Those at higher risk may have different guidelines as determined by their provider.
Types of Mammograms
Screening Mammograms
A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts in a woman who has no symptoms. The goal of a screening mammogram is to find cancer when it is too small to be felt by the woman or her provider. Finding small breast cancers early with a screening mammogram greatly improves the woman’s chance of successful treatment.
Diagnostic Mammograms
A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray exam of the breasts in a woman who either has a breast problem (i.e., a breast lump) or had a change show up on her screening mammogram. During a diagnostic mammogram more pictures are taken to carefully study the area of concern. A breast ultrasound may be recommended by the to further investigate the area of concern.
3-D Mammograms
For women with very dense breasts, 3-D mammography (digital breast tomosynthesis) provides images of the breast in slices from many different angles. This makes abnormalities easier to see and can reduce the need for you to return for additional imaging.
Please check with your insurance to see if they cover 3D Imaging.
The Standard in Digital Mammography
Your breast health is essential and yearly mammograms are vital in the fight against breast cancer. Johnson Memorial Health Services uses digital mammography technology, which allows the provider to magnify and optimize different parts of your breast tissue. With this technology, you experience shorter exam times and fewer callbacks, resulting in less anxiety and superior care. It’s designed with you in mind to make breast compression during your exam more comfortable.
Call Johnson Memorial Health Services at 320-769-4393 to schedule your annual mammogram.
