The Importance Of Early Detection
Baylor Scott & White — Grapevine Breast Center Medical Director Talks Mammogram Screenings.
Mike Lewis
Ying Chen, M.D., Ph.D.
When should I start screening mammograms?
Women at average risk should have annual screening mammography from age 40. Women with risk factors may start earlier than age 40. These recommendations are from the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBS).
I don’t have a family history or breast symptoms, should I still get a mammogram?
Yes. Three of four new diagnoses of breast cancer are in women with no obvious risk factors or symptoms. Annual mammograms for women 40 and older help detect early and asymptomatic breast cancer, which is most treatable with higher survival rates. That’s why it’s widely recommended that women get a screening mammogram every year starting at age 40.
What’s the difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram?
A screening mammogram is for women seeking early cancer detection and who have no breast symptoms. A diagnostic mammogram is for women experiencing breast symptoms — a lump, breast pain, nipple discharge or skin change. A diagnostic mammogram may also be used to further evaluate an area of concern on a screening mammogram.
What is 3D mammography and how does it help me?
Also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, 3D mammography is an advanced type of mammogram. Many research studies have consistently shown that 3D mammography increases invasive breast cancer detection rates and decreases the need to call a patient back after a screening mammography. While the procedure is not much different than a traditional 2D mammogram, the camera quickly moves over the breast and takes multiple low-dose images during a 3D exam. The result is multiple images of breast tissue “slices.” Imagine a 2D mammogram like looking through a book with a lens that allows us to see through all the book pages overlapping each other. 3D mammograms enable us to flip through every page.
What if I have risk factors for breast cancer?
All women visiting our imaging center receive a risk assessment. If a woman's lifetime risk for developing breast cancer exceeds 20% based on the assessment, she is considered high risk and will receive further guidance from our specialized staff. For high-risk patients, the American College of Radiology and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend a supplemental screening breast MRI in addition to screening mammograms starting at age 30.
