Banner Health hospitals provide a range of services to support good breast health for women, including educational programs, diagnostic services such as mammography and various support groups.
With early detection, breast cancer can be cured. The best way to improve your awareness is through a combination of regular breast exams and mammography. 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.
Here are the most common types of screening procedures used in breast exams:
- 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.
- Screening mammography -- For women with no current breast problems. Results will be mailed to you and your health care provider.
- Diagnostic mammography -- For women with breast-related problems. You will receive immediate results from a certified mammography radiologist.
Other breast imaging services include:
- Stereotactic Breast Biopsy (Mammotome)
- Ultrasound Guided Biopsy
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
- Ductograms
- Cyst Aspiration
- Pre-Operative Needle Localization.