Some women put off getting a mammogram because they think it will be painful, harmful, or costly. But this screening is safe, quick, and effective. And it could save your life.
Some things like age and genetics can't be changed, but here are some ways you can help reduce your breast cancer risk.
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How are benign breast conditions and infections diagnosed?
Generalized breast lumpiness is known under many different names, such as "fibrocystic disease" and "fibroid breasts."
Today's high-quality screening mammogram is the most effective tool available to detect breast cancer before lumps can be felt or symptoms appear.
Mammography has been used for about 40 years, and in the past 15 years technical advancements have greatly improved both the technique and results.
The thought of having breast cancer is frightening to everyone, and especially devastating to women.
A woman can and probably will experience a number of benign (noncancerous) breast conditions during her lifetime.
Breast Imaging Center of Excellence
The Imaging Department at Woman’s Hospital is designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The ACR recognizes breast imaging centers that have earned accreditation in all of the College’s voluntary breast-imaging accreditation programs in addition to the mandatory Mammography Accreditation Program.
The breast imaging services at Woman's Hospital Breast Imaging Center are fully accredited in:
- Mammography
- Stereotactic breast biopsy
- Breast ultrasound
- Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy
ACR evaluations conducted by experts in the field have determined that this facility has achieved high practice standards in:
- Image quality
- Personnel qualifications
- Facility equipment
- Quality control procedures
- Quality assurance programs
Our radiologist team has more than 35 years of experience.
Woman’s Hospital also provides the following breast services:
- Mammopad for more comfortable mammograms
- CAD Imaging System for improved detection
- Breast Specific Gamma Imaging
- BRCA genetic testing and same day diagnostic work-up in most cases
Becky Humphreys, RN, BSN, is the Breast Health Educator at Woman’s Hospital. She guides patients through the complex cancer care system. Becky is a Certified Breast Patient Navigator – Cancer (CBPN-C) by the National Consortium of Breast Centers.
For more information, please call (601) 933-6159.
Breast Imaging
Partnering with you for breast health
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Woman's Hospital provides helpful services to educate women on breast health, and encourage self-exams and routine screenings. We utilize highly sophisticated imaging technology that can detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective. The combination of highly trained, caring technologists and the latest imaging technology allows us to deliver the highest quality of care.
Digital mammography
Mammography is an X-ray exam of the breasts used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Woman's Hospital offers state-of-the-art digital imaging technology for mammograms. With digital technology, radiologists can zoom in on particular areas or change brightness or contrast for even greater visibility, and results can be read immediately. It offers numerous benefits to women, including:
- Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
- Less radiation exposure.
- Superior image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams.
Breast ultrasound (sonography)
A breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate an abnormality found during a mammogram. Ultrasound allows doctors to see the area closest to the chest wall, which can be difficult to see using mammography. This technology also helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid (a cyst) or is a solid mass.
Stereotactic biopsies
When a lump or abnormal area is detected during screening, a biopsy can determine whether cells are cancerous. Advanced imaging technology — such as mammography or ultrasound— can be combined with minimally invasive techniques to obtain tissue samples. Woman's Hospital offers digital stereotactic biopsies, and women can choose to be seated or lying down during the procedure for maximum comfort.
To schedule a mammogram or other screening exam, please call (601) 932-1000.
Woman's Hospital offers the latest in screening and diagnostic breast imaging technology, including digital mammography and stereotactic biopsy. Our highly trained technologists utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology to help detect cancer at the earliest stages and provide a full spectrum of care.
