Digital mammography is the most effective method of early detection in the fight against breast cancer. This technology offers women a number of benefits, including improved image quality, reduced procedure time and enhanced patient comfort.
A Genius ™ 3D™ mammogram captures multiple images of the breast (using x-rays) from various angles in order to create a composite image. This allows doctors to examine breast tissue layer by layer, versus one flat image. Instead of viewing all complexities of the breast tissue using a flat image, fine details are more visible and are no longer hidden by breast tissue above or below.
Wishing for a more comfortable mammogram? The SmartCurve system provides a curved compression surface that offers a more comfortable patient experience without compromising image quality and exam time.
Mammogram and breast examination guidelines:
- If you are between the ages of 20 and 40, you should perform a breast self-examination every month and have a breast examination by a physician every three years
- If you are between the ages of 30 and 35 and have a strong family history of breast cancer, you should have a mammogram
- If you are 35 or over, a baseline mammogram should be done for later comparison
- By age 40, you should do a breast self-examination every month, have a breast exam by a physician and a mammography every year
- After age 50, you should continue your breast self-examination every month, and have a physician breast exam and mammogram every year
- Who's at risk for breast cancer?
- Because breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, every woman should consider herself at risk. However, the following factors put you at higher risk for breast cancer:
- Over 50 years old
- Previous breast cancer or benign breast disease
- Family history of breast cancer (especially maternal)x
- No full-term pregnancies
- Pregnancy of first child after age 30
- Early menstruation (before age 13)
- Late menopause (after age 52)
- Diet high in fat
- Obesity
- What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Since most breast cancers are discovered by women themselves, it is important for you to know what to look for:
- A lump or thickening in the breast
- A change in breast shape
- Discharge from the nipple
- Skin changes (color, texture, consistency)
- Puckering or dimpling
- Nipple inversion (pulling inward)
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