Breast cancer detection and prevention messages peak in October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but breast cancer is a health concern that is always present. “On average 635 U.S. women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day,” says Radiologist Sheila Manion, MD, Director of Women’s Imaging at Kettering Health Network.
Did You Know?
• 1 in 8 U.S. Women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.
• About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer.
• A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
What is a Mammogram?
There are two types of mammograms, screening and diagnostic.
Screening mammograms are x-rays of the breasts done on a routine basis for women who do not exhibit any signs or symptoms of breast cancer or have had a pervious abnormal mammogram. The purpose of annual screening mammograms is to be proactive in a woman’s healthcare and potentially detect breast cancer in early stages and improve treatment outcomes.
Diagnostic mammograms are x-rays of the breasts that are more in-depth, often using another type of technology or taking additional images of an abnormal spot found in a screening mammogram. During a diagnostic mammogram, a radiologist reviews the images during your visit to determine if additional images need to be taken.
Screening Guidelines:
There are lots of messages circulating on when and how frequently screening mammograms should be performed, which can create confusion for women when it comes time to schedule their next appointment.
“We believe early detection is one of the best defenses against breast cancer, which is why we agree with The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommendation that women 40 and above schedule an annual screening mammogram,” says Mary Cockerham, Network Director of Breast Imaging for Kettering Health Network. “We realize that every woman is different, and there are special circumstances with high-risk patients who have a family history of cancer, when screening may begin at an earlier age.”
Schedule Your Mammogram:
To find out more about scheduling your mammogram visit Kettering Breast Evaluation Centers or call 1-800-373-2160.
