Dr. Nicole Roy, radiologist and women’s imaging specialist with University of Utah Health Care talks about mammograms on Studio 5
Breast Cancer Facts
• In the United States one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. (One in 1,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer.)
• Breast cancer forms in the tissue of the breast, usually the ducts and lobules.
• Breast cancer can develop at any age, but your risk increases as you grow older.
• Although your risk is higher if more than one immediate family member has had breast cancer, more than 70% of all women with breast cancer have NO family history of the disease.
Early Detection Important
• Mammography is the most important tool we have for the early detection of breast cancer.
• Even though the American Cancer Society recommends women over the age of forty have a screening mammogram every year, only half of women actually do.
• Utah has the second-lowest rate of screening mammography in the country.
What is a mammogram?
• A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast tissue.
• A radiologist is the physician who closely evaluates these images, looking for signs of breast cancer, and is often the one to diagnose cancer.
• The signs of cancer on a mammogram can be very subtle. It’s common to be called back in for additional imaging to make sure a suspicious area is not actually cancer. Many times these additional views can help a physician confidently exclude cancer.
When should a woman have a mammogram?
• In general, women should have their first mammogram at age 40, and every year thereafter.
• Women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer may need to have a mammogram before age 40. These women should talk to their physician to determine the appropriate time to start screening mammograms.
Why is it important to have a mammogram?
• Mammograms allow physicians to detect breast cancer in its earlier stages, before it has spread and is easier to treat.
• A mammogram is a quick exam that can save your life.
University of Utah Health Care’s Mammography Program
• University of Utah Health Care mammography services are available at several locations in the community, including Huntsman Cancer Hospital, the Greenwood Health Center (Midvale), and the Redstone Health Center (Park City).
• The Comprehensive Breast Care Center at Huntsman Cancer Hospital is the first in the Intermountain region to receive the Breast Imaging Center of Excellence certification by the American College of Radiology.
To schedule a mammography appointment, call 801-581-5496. Appointments can be scheduled within the week. And for more information, go to www.healthcare.utah.edu
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