Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the U.S. (second only to skin cancer), so an annual breast cancer screening should be on every woman’s to-do list. Breast cancer screening refers to testing an otherwise-healthy patient for breast cancer in an attempt to achieve an earlier diagnosis. Early detection is key to successful cancer treatment and positive patient outcomes. In fact, the reduction in mortality rates from breast cancer during the past 20 years is believed to be, in part, as a result of improved screening and treatment techniques.
“Better methods of earlier detection of breast cancer – like digital mammography and dedicated breast MRI – may improve mortality rates even further,” says Dr. Jui-Lien “Lillian” Chou, Medical Director of The Breast Center at Wellness Lubbock.
Progressive breast cancer centers, like The Breast Center at Wellness Lubbock and its sister facility Aurora Breast Center in San Antonio, employ a combination of breast imaging modalities to meet the unique screening needs of each patient. There is no “one-size-fits-all” formula for the right breast cancer screening, cautions Dr. Chou. While mammography alone is enough for some patients, many others need additional breast imaging modalities for effective breast cancer screening. Regionally, only The Breast Center at Wellness Lubbock provides a full range of the latest breast imaging and breast cancer treatment options.
“Patients who have concerns that their risk for breast cancer may be elevated for any reason, should definitely consult with us,” says Dr. Chou. “There are a number of gray areas regarding who may or may not be a candidate for expanded breast cancer screening, for example with breast MRI, and it is likely that the criteria will expand as we continue to realize the limitations of using only mammography as a screening tool. As a comprehensive breast care center, we have access to the latest technology and can screen patients using the most appropriate breast imaging method for their individual needs.”
X-rays have been used for nearly a century to detect breast cancer. But the modern-day film mammogram, also known as analog mammography, was invented in 1969. In this procedure, images are recorded on film much in the way a traditional film camera takes pictures.
In a digital mammogram, X-rays are still used. But they are turned into electric signals that can then be stored in a computer for analysis.
For those patients, based on age, personal and family history, and breast density, for whom mammography is the most appropriate screening method, The Breast Center at Wellness Lubbock employs selenium-based digital mammography technology. Image quality is the key to early detection, and the Selenia® uses selenium-based direct capture technology, which eliminates light diffusion for perfect clarity and exquisite image quality. The system also incorporates HTC® grid technology to deliver higher contrast images. For the patient, there is a reduced radiation dose – a clear advantage over analog mammograms and other digital mammography systems.
Mammography is a useful screening modality to identify microcalifications, which can be an early sign of breast cancer. Abnormal breast density on a mammogram can also be an indicator of breast cancer.
Henda’s Law – named for Henda Salmeron, a Dallas Realtor and breast cancer survivor who led efforts to pass the legislation – requires mammography providers to notify patients with dense breast tissue that their mammogram may be less accurate than that of women with lower breast density. The law states: “If your mammogram demonstrates that you have dense breast tissue, which could hide abnormalities, and you have other risk factors for breast cancer that have been identified, you might benefit from supplemental screening tests that may be suggested by your ordering physician.”
“Patients should be empowered with the knowledge that mammogram is not the only option for breast imaging, especially for those patients with dense breasts,” says Dr. Chou. “For women at elevated risk for breast cancer, as well as those with dense breast tissue, a mammogram alone is not enough. Supplemental imaging, with ultrasound or dedicated breast MRI, is necessary to provide a complete picture.
To contact Wellness Lubbock, located at 4009 19th St., Suite E, please call (806) 799-9355 or visit www.wellnesslubbock.com. Visit Aurora Breast Center San Antonio at 9102 Floyd Curl Drive, website: www.aurorabreastcenter.com, telephone (210) 247-0888.
Abnormal Breast Destiny