Mammogram

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a photograph of the breast taken with a special machine that uses low-dose X-rays. These images help medical professionals diagnose lumps in the breast, and routine mammograms may reveal early signs of cancer.

In a screening mammogram, a skilled medical technologist takes pictures of each breast from two different angles. Later, a radiologist reads the images to look for any abnormalities or suspicious areas, comparing them to the patient’s previous X-rays when possible.

Who needs a mammogram?

In general, if you’re over 40, your risk automatically increases, so you should have an annual mammogram. Recent studies of women in their 40s and 50s showed that routine screenings decreased breast cancer deaths by 15-29%.

Other factors that increase breast cancer risk include:

• Inherited genetic changes
• Early menstrual period
• Beginning menopause after age 55
• First pregnancy after age 30
• No pregnancy
• Lack of exercise
• Obesity
• Dense breasts
• Using certain hormone therapies
• Taking birth control pills
• Personal history of breast cancer
• Personal history of other breast diseases
• Family history of breast cancer
• Radiation therapy
• Exposure to the drug DES
• Alcohol consumption

Together, you and your provider at OB-GYN Associates PC can decide the right mammogram schedule for you, depending on your preferences and your medical and family histories.

What are your options for mammography?

For your convenience, OB-GYN Associates PC provides cutting-edge mammography services on-site. The new Selenia® Dimensions® digital mammogram uses state-of-the-art technology by taking pictures in sections from different angles. A computer then produces each image in 3D, one slice at a time.

In contrast to the conventional mammogram, digital mammography provides several benefits:

• Faster results
• More accurate images
• Increased detection rate for women under 50
• Reduced need for additional views and recalls
• Reduced radiation

Digital mammography also finds 20-40% more invasive cancers than conventional methods.

What if you have dense breast tissue?

For the 40% of the female population in the United States with dense breast tissue, even 3D technology fails to present clear enough images for accurate cancer detection. The team at OB-GYN Associates PC provides the answer with automated breast ultrasound (ABUS). An ABUS exam takes only 15 minutes and can be scheduled on the same day as your regular mammogram.

Take advantage of the latest technology for your next mammogram. Call the office of OB-GYN Associates PC in Cedar Rapids today. Or book your appointment online.