Computer Aided Detection | When You Should Have A Mammogram
Screening | Diagnostic | Discount Screening Programs

Breast cancer survival rates are higher than ever because of early detection. The single most important factor in early detection and positive treatment of breast cancer is mammography. Digital Mammography is a safe, low-dose X-ray that can detect very small changes in the breast, especially those that you or your healthcare provider cannot feel during a breast examination. It can detect 90-95 percent of all breast cancers. Mammograms are not 100 percent accurate-especially if a woman has dense tissue that can mask subtle changes in the breast. Therefore, mammograms must be only one part of a regular screening program that includes an annual clinical breast exam and monthly breast self-examination.

And now, our radiologists are using computer-aided detection (CAD) to further improve their ability to find even the smallest breast cancers at their earliest stages when there is the greatest chance of cure. In the past, mammography could miss some cancers. CAD is sometimes referred to as a second pairs of eyes in that it is designed to pick up abnormalities in the breast that are not always evident to the radiologist upon an initial evaluation.

Once the radiologist does an initial review, the CAD software is applied to the film. If the software detects any abnormalities, it highlights them so the radiologist can take another look at that particular area. CAD also allows the radiologist to manipulate the image to enhance an area that might be suspicious, providing an even better view of that area.

Some of the most common abnormalities the CAD digital technology is designed to detect include:

• Tiny calcium deposits that may indicate cancer.
• Small masses or distortions.

The Kathryn Candor Lundy Breast Health Center's mammography units and those at Muncy Valley Hospital Radiology department have been tested and accredited by the American College of Radiology and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The testing program follows the guidelines established by the American College of Radiology and the American Cancer Society.

To schedule a mammogram at The Kathryn Candor Lundy Breast Health Center, call 570-320-7619. To schedule a mammogram at Muncy Valley Hospital, call 570-321-2545.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women who have no symptoms and are at average risk for breast cancer should begin yearly mammography at age 40. Every woman is different-as she ages, recommendations for screening are based on her current health status and estimated life expectancy. As long as a woman is in good health (with a life expectancy exceeding 5 years) she should continue with yearly mammography.

At increased risk are women with a family history of:

• Breast cancer at a young age.
• Breast cancers affecting both sides on the same woman.
• Ovarian and breast cancers.
• Male breast cancers.

If you have an increased risk for developing breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that you check with your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate breast screening schedule for you.

Women who have breast symptoms should check with their healthcare professional to determine whether or not mammography is recommended regardless of age or time between mammograms.

Most early breast cancers cause no symptoms, as it sometimes takes years for the disease to progress. When breast cancer is detected an early stage-when it hasn't spread to the lymph nodes-the 5-year survival rate is 97 percent.

A screening mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast in a woman who has no breast symptoms. The goal of a screening mammogram is to find cancer when it is still too small for you or your doctor to feel. Screening mammograms can drastically improve a woman's chance for successful treatment by finding small breast cancers early.

A screening mammogram usually takes 2 X-rays of each breast. For some patients, more pictures may be needed to include as much breast tissue as possible.

A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast for a woman who shows symptoms or has an abnormality discovered during a screening mammogram. More images are taken during a diagnostic mammogram to allow the doctor to study the tissue carefully.

Diagnostic indications include:

• Breast pain.
• Nipple discharge.
• Breast lump.
• Skin dimpling.
• Nipple retraction.
• Previous history of breast cancer or previous abnormal mammogram.

Sometimes, a diagnostic mammogram reveals that an abnormal area of tissue is not likely to be cancer and the patient simply returns for a re-check in 4 to 6 months. If the doctor decides the tissue is suspect and needs to be biopsied, the next step may be Minimally Invasive Breast Surgery or a more advanced biopsy, depending on the individual case. About 80 percent of all breast lesions that are biopsied are found to be benign when evaluated under the microscope.

The Kathryn Candor Lundy Breast Health Center offers a prepaid, low-cost mammogram to women, 35 years or older, who have no current symptoms of breast disease and who do not have medical insurance to cover a mammogram. This program is offered annually during Breast Health Awareness month in October.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive clinical breast examination as well as instruction in breast self-examination by a breast health nurse specialist. For more information about these services or to schedule an appointment, please call 570-326-8200 or toll-free 1-800-585-2227.