Each person’s breasts are as unique as they are, so it’s important to get to know your breasts and understand what is considered normal for you. Clinical breast exams and breast cancer screenings allow you and your doctor to monitor your breast health and investigate any unusual changes. Breast cancer screening often detects precancerous and cancerous breast tissue that may be present in people who are otherwise healthy. If diagnosed and treated in the initial stages, breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer.
Breast Health FAQS
How do you screen for breast cancer?
A mammogram is the most common screening exam for breast cancer. A mammogram uses X-rays to create images of the breast that help doctors find any abnormal changes in your breast tissue. Additional screening tests, such as breast ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be recommended for follow-up screening or those at high risk of breast cancer.
When should I get a mammogram?
Women should begin yearly mammograms at age 40. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about the best screening plan for you.
Will a mammogram hurt?
Most people report mild discomfort during their mammogram due to compression of the breast. However, this quick procedure can be lifesaving and is necessary to capture the best images.
How much does a mammogram cost?
Many insurance providers cover the cost of mammograms in full. If you do not have insurance or are concerned about paying for your mammogram, please discuss it with your doctor. We have several programs that can support you.
What is a 3D mammogram?
While a conventional mammogram uses two pictures of the breast, typically one from the side and one from above, a 3D mammogram incorporates multiple images taken from different angles to create a 3D picture of the breast. These pictures allow doctors to examine your breast layer by layer and give doctors a clearer view, helping to improve the detection of breast cancer and prevent false alarms.
Who should get a 3D mammogram?
3D mammograms are appropriate for all women but are especially beneficial if you have dense breasts. Women with dense breast tissue may benefit from other types of breast imaging in addition to mammography, such as ultrasound or MRI. Your breast density will be determined after your first mammogram and will help you and your doctor decide the best type of breast cancer screening for you.
What does it mean if I have dense breasts?
If you have dense breasts, your breasts have more glandular and connective tissue and less fat tissue. Dense breasts don’t have a certain shape or size, and breasts that feel firm aren’t necessarily dense. The only way to determine breast density is with a mammogram. In Pennsylvania, state law requires that your healthcare provider inform you about your breast density level in your report following your mammogram. Because masses in dense breasts can be difficult to detect on mammograms alone, your physician might recommend more detailed screenings.
What if they see something on my mammogram?
While a call back after an abnormal mammogram can be scary, it is common and does not mean you have breast cancer. If your mammogram image is unclear or has an area of concern, your doctor will want to take a closer look with additional imaging tests. Often, abnormalities turn out to be benign (explain benign here) breast conditions, such as cysts or fibroadenomas (non-cancerous breast lumps). Follow-up screening helps your doctor get the - clearest picture of your breast health and propose an appropriate care plan.
What does it mean if I need a breast biopsy?
You may need a breast biopsy if your doctor is concerned about the results of your breast imaging tests. A biopsy removes a sample of breast tissue for testing and helps your doctor determine whether a suspicious lump or growth is cancerous or not. While it’s normal to feel anxious about this procedure, the answers it provides will help you make the most informed health decisions. A biopsy is the only way to know for sure if you have breast cancer.
If you have further questions, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.