Screening Mammogram
Mammography screening is the only method that is consistently proven to reduce breast cancer deaths. We are the only facility in the area to be granted the distinguished ACR Designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Centers seal.
Learn More About Screening Mammogram
Current guidelines recommend that women start getting screening mammograms every year beginning at age 40. Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to detect breast cancer, often up to 2–3 years before a lump can be felt.
Screening every 12 months is the best way to catch breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Early detection can reduce the need for aggressive treatments and lead to better outcomes.
If you’re experiencing a lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or have a history of breast cancer, your doctor should order a diagnostic mammogram instead.
To learn more about dense breast tissue, visit DenseBreast-info.org.
If you’ve had a mammogram at another facility, please bring a copy of the images (disc or films) with you. If you’d like us to request them for you, fill out a medical records release form at least 1 month before your appointment, especially if the facility is out of state, as it may take up to 3 weeks. Also, please bring any relevant medical history, including prior breast surgeries, hormone use, and any personal or family history of breast cancer.
Day of Your Exam:
- Do not apply deodorant, lotion, talcum powder, or perfume under your arms or on your breasts. These can show up on the images and make them harder to read. We’ll have deodorant available for you after your exam.
- Wear a two-piece outfit, so you’ll only need to remove your top and bra.
- If possible, schedule your mammogram during the two weeks after your period, when your breasts are usually less tender.
- Try to avoid caffeine for a few days before the exam to reduce breast sensitivity.
Screening mammography results will be sent to you and your physician within two weeks. If you are called back for additional mammographic views, do not be alarmed. Often times more views are needed in order to make an accurate diagnosis. If this is the case a member of our staff will contact you personally to discuss the recommended next step. This is called a diagnostic mammogram.
If you have had a previous mammogram at a facility other than Radiology Associates, please let us know so that we may obtain these films. It is extremely important for the radiologist to have your prior films for comparison, as it enhances the doctor’s ability to detect a subtle change or small abnormality on your current mammogram. Availability of prior films at your appointment also decreases the length of time it takes for you to get your results.
Please contact us if for some reason you have not gotten the results of your mammogram.
Your exam will be reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists, who will interpret the images and generate a detailed report. This report will be sent to your referring physician within five business days. Once finalized, your results will also be available through our online patient portal for your review and reference. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your results, please contact your referring doctor directly.
This risk calculator asks questions about your personal and family history to determine the possibility of developing breast cancer. The results will display your 10-year risk and your lifetime risk score. Please consult with your physician should you have any questions about your risk for breast cancer or for guidance on options for breast cancer screening or genetic counseling.
Click the link below for the Tyrer-Cuzick Calculator.
Before your mammogram, you will be asked to cleanse your breasts and underarm area so that it is free of any deodorants, body powders, perfumes or body lotions. Particles from those materials may mimic calcifications on the images, so this cleansing is extremely important for accurate imaging.
A nationally certified female mammographer will position your breasts in the specially designed x-ray unit one at a time. This specially designed mammography equipment will include a platform for compression. This compression is a necessary action with mammogram.
Mammogram Accuracy
Mammograms are the best tool for finding breast cancer early, but they don’t catch every case. If you notice any changes in your breasts, talk to your doctor—even if your mammogram was normal.
Additional Testing
About 1 in 10 women are called back after a screening mammogram for more tests. This is more common in women ages 40–49. Most follow-up tests show no cancer, but they’re important to get a full and accurate picture. Sometimes, a biopsy or 6-month follow-up may be recommended.
Radiation Safety
Mammograms use very low radiation—comparable to a short airplane flight. Digital technology keeps the dose low while still providing clear images. The benefits of early detection far outweigh the small risk from radiation.