DYK? October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and when it comes to breast cancer, early detection is the best prevention.
Just *being a woman* is the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer, with 1 in 8 women being diagnosed during her lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. this year alone, and ~85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of the disease.
When should women start getting mammograms?
It’s recommended for women to start receiving mammograms when they turn 40. Finding breast cancer early significantly reduces risk + increases survival – and thanks to advances in mammography screening, doctors can more accurately detect breast cancer in its early stages.
2D vs. 3D mammography
In conventional 2D mammography, small breast cancers may be missed + normal tissue may appear abnormal. New 3D mammography technology gives doctors a more detailed picture of the breast tissue + more accurate results. 3D mammography is available at all Prisma Health mammography locations.
How it works:
- 3D mammography technology uses imaging that reduces tissue overlap by taking multiple images.
- A computer then converts the images into layers, allowing the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time.
- The 3D exam requires no additional compression + takes just a few seconds longer than a 2D exam.
- 3D mammography is covered by Medicare + most insurance and is recommended for women of all ages with all types of breast density.
Scheduling a mammogram
Prisma Health has 5 locations in the Midlands. To schedule a mammogram at a location convenient to you, call 803-296-8888 or 1-800-221-9724 (toll free). You don’t need a referral.
Pro-tip for employers + event organizers: Prisma Health offers mobile mammography at offices and community events. Give them a call at 803-296-3868 or email to schedule a visit from the mobile mammography unit.
