The goal of screening for breast cancer is to find it BEFORE symptoms begin (such as a lump). The earlier cancer is detected, the more likely a tumor will be smaller and more confined to the breast. This means treatment is likely to be more successful and survival rates will be higher.
The American College of Radiology current recommends that women with average risk of breast cancer get annual screening mammograms, starting at age 40.
If you have risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor about the appropriate time to begin screening mammograms.
If you have symptoms of breast cancer, don’t delay making an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can write a physicians’ order for a diagnostic mammogram.
Symptoms include:
- Breast lump
- Skin dimpling or skin looking like an orange peel
- Nipple retraction (turning inward)
- Nipple/areola skin that is red, dry, flaking or thickened
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk (bloody or clear like water)
- Swollen lymph nodes (under the arm or around the collar bone – these can sometimes be felt even before the original tumor in the breast)
- Swelling of the breast (even if no pain)
- Breast or nipple pain which persists in one pinpoint spot and never goes away, especially if associated with a breast lump
3D Mammography is now available at the following UofL Health facilities:
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center – 502-562-4361, option 1
- Medical Center East – 502-681-1405
- Medical Center South – 502-681-1405
- Shelbyville Hospital – 502-681-1405
- Mary & Elizabeth Hospital – 502-681-1405 (2D currently available; 3D coming soon)