You At Your Best

October 2020 • Women's Health

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sPOnsOr cOntent Approximately, 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop breast cancer over the course of her lifetime according to The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Unfortunately, breast cancer does not take a break during pandemics and neither should you with scheduling your annual screening mammogram. The most effective and successful treatment options for breast cancer occur when it is detected in its earliest stage. Mammograms are special X-rays taken of the breast tissue to identify any problems or abnormalities. When used in combination with monthly breast self- exams and clinical exams, mammograms are an important tool in detecting breast cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death among women. Because the mammography equipment can locate lumps long before they can be seen or felt, most experts recommend that all women older than 40 have a mammogram performed regularly. The American Cancer Society recommends at ages 45 - 54, women with an average risk for breast cancer should have annual screening mammograms. "The bottom line is, a majority of breast cancers can be treated successfully if found early," said Dr. Christopher Menendez, breast surgeon. "And the most effective way to detect breast cancer at an early, treatable stage is to have yearly mammograms starting at the age of 40, and to have regular clinical breast exams by a doctor or nurse. In my practice, I'm seeing younger women now, and I believe that's because there's an increased awareness around risk factors, family history, genetics and the importance of screening." What to expect Mammograms are quick, relatively painless procedures that can often be performed at your local hospital or in your physician's office. Your breasts will be pressed, one at a time, between two plates for a few seconds while the X-ray pictures are taken. The process may be a bit uncomfortable for a few moments, but the pressure is necessary to ensure clear, accurate pictures. The American Breast Cancer Foundation defines screening mammograms* as those that search for signs of breast cancer in women without symptoms. Diagnostic mammograms are used to thoroughly explore an area of concern in order for the physician to make an accurate diagnosis. What if there's a lump? If a lump is found and breast cancer is suspected, your physician will remove the tissue and perform a biopsy to determine whether it is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). More than 8 of 10 breast lumps found by women are benign, according to breastcancer.org. When breast cancer is caught before it has spread beyond the breast, survival rates increase significantly, and a mammogram can be your best friend in the quest for early detection. What technology is available? Breast tomosynthesis, commonly called 3D mammography, produces a three-dimensional view of the breast tissue, which helps radiologists identify and characterize individual breast structures without the confusion of overlapping tissue. Providing sharper images, it is especially valuable for women receiving a baseline screening, those who have dense breast tissue and women with a personal history of breast cancer. Digital imaging technology is also available 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 often offers numerous benefits to women, including: • Improved accuracy of screening exams, especially for women with dense breast tissue. • Less radiation exposure. • Greater image quality, reducing the need for repeat exams. How do I schedule a mammogram at Northwest Health? Call 479-757-4135 for services at Northwest Medical Center-Bentonville or Northwest Breast Imaging Center at Willow Creek Women's Hospital. Call 479-215-3420 for services at Siloam Springs Regional Hospital. To learn more about special activities during Breast Cancer Awareness Month or breast care services at Northwest Health, visit http://bit.ly/NWH-BreastCare. *A screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. For American College of Radiology recommendations, visit acr.org. Appointments are on a first-come, first- served basis. An order from a physician or qualified healthcare provider is not required but highly recommended. Patient must provide a physician or provider name when an appointment is made. If the patient does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/ provider, and the patient is responsible for folow-up. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for a screening mammogram. the northwest breast Imaging center at Willow creek was the first in northwest arkansas to offer breast tomosynthesis, also called 3d mammography, to detect breast cancer. Mammo Matters 4 | YOu at YOur best | nWadg.cOm/YOuatYOurbest OctOber - WOmen's HealtH | sundaY, sePtember 27, 2020

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