MAMMOGRAMS

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women in the United States.  According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 36 women will die from breast cancer.1 Environmental factors make up 80% of a women's risk of developing breast cancer, only 20% is due to family history.

Breast cancer is associated with increased age, alcohol use, health and hereditary factors. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment and detection. 

Mammogram
 
Mammography uses X-rays to create images of the breast. These images are called mammograms. A mammogram is a screening tool used to find breast cancer in a person who does not have any known problems or symptoms. Mammography can detect cancers at an early stage when they are small and the chances of survival are highest. Mammography screenings are the most effective breast cancer screening tool used today. Advancements in technology and early detection have resulted in a steady decline in deaths due to breast cancer in Columbia County.

Our mammography program is MQSA-ACR certified. Our registered mammography technologists provide digital mammography on weekdays and weekends by appointment. 3D mammograms are now available at Prairie Ridge Health. Two types of mammograms are offered - screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. 3D mammography technology has shown a 41% increase in detecting invasive cancers.

It is recommended that:

  • Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms (x-rays of the breast)1
  • Women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year1
  • Women 55 and older should have mammograms every 2 years or continue yearly screening1
  • Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health1

Self-examinations should be performed on a regular basis, noting how breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to a health care provider right away.

Learn about our monthly walk-in program that offers screening mammograms with no appointment or referral necessary 

Call us at 920-623-6466 to learn more or to schedule your mammogram.


 

 Source 1: American Cancer Society