Breast Health
What breast health screenings are available?
The most common types of screening procedures used in breast exams:
- Self breast exams -- This self breast screening can be done in the privacy of home and any changes should be shared with your health care provider.
- Breast ultrasound -- This breast imaging exam uses sound waves to diagnose whether a lump or mass is cystic or solid. It may also be used for ultrasound guided procedures.
- Mammography -- An X-ray of the breast used for screening or diagnosis. It finds tumors too small to be detected in a physical exam by your doctor.
- Breast MRI -- For certain women at high risk of breast cancer, a screening Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is recommended along with a yearly mammogram.
- Screening mammography -- For women with no current breast problems.
- Diagnostic mammography -- For women with breast-related problems. You will receive immediate results from a certified mammography radiologist.
When do you need to get breast health screenings?
The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines for the early detection of breast cancer.
- For women ages 40 or older:
- Clinical breast exam every year
- Breast self-exam every month
- Mammogram every year
- For women ages 20 to 39:
- Clinical breast exam every three years
- Breast self-exam every month
- Earlier screening guidelines may be recommended depending on your personal risk factors.
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