95% of Breast Cancer Occurs in Women Over 40
Over the course of a lifetime, a woman’s chances of developing breast cancer are about one in eight. Most cases of breast cancer—about 95 percent—occur in women over age 40. The good news is that actively managing your breast health makes a difference. A personal commitment to good health, along with early detection and high quality care, can help improve breast cancer outcomes. Our mission is to provide the best available screenings, education, diagnostic services and treatment for optimal breast health.
Early Detection Is Your Best Protection
Breast cancer is most treatable and curable when it is found early. You can increase your chances of early detection in three ways:
- Monthly breast self exams
- Regular mammograms
- Breast exams by your health care provider
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. It can reveal cancer too small to be felt. It also can detect the disease in women who are healthy. Our digital technology allows us to take an electronic image of the breast. The radiologist is able to enhance or magnify the image to look for abnormalities or changes that may be related to breast cancer. A report will be sent to your doctor.
If a lump is felt in the breast, a mammogram helps the radiologist determine whether it is benign or malignant (cancerous). Mammography also is useful for finding breast lumps that can’t be felt, but are indicated by other signs such as thickening, swelling, dimpling, skin irritation, distortion, retraction of the nipple, scaliness of the nipple or nipple discharge.
Who Should Get a Mammogram?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described, you should schedule a mammogram and a professional breast examination to evaluate the problem. If you are symptom-free, you should have annual mammograms starting at age 40. We realize there are differences of opinion in the medical community. The Society of Breast Imaging and the American College of Radiology recommends having yearly mammograms at age 40.
For those who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer or those who have dense breasts, we offer
Tomosynthesis (3D mammography). Studies indicate an increase of 40 percent to 50 percent in cancer detection with Tomosynthesis, as well as a decrease in the need to return for additional imaging.
Depending on your family history, your risks, and your physician’s findings, mammography may be recommended earlier or more frequently.