Over 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in this year alone. But that’s not the end of the story. Did you know that if breast cancer is caught in its earliest stages, the 5-year survival rate is 99%?1 However, early detection can only happen if you choose to get screened annually, starting at age 40. The chances of survival significantly increase with early detection and support, so you don’t have to fear the outcome. You can find support and a variety of early detection methods right here at Sidney Regional Medical Center.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) advises that women start annual breast mammograms at age 40; however, women with a 20% lifetime risk of breast cancer or greater are strongly encouraged to have more frequent screenings before reaching that age. Women who are at high risk for breast cancer should get a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, typically starting at age 30. Women considered at high risk have one or more of the following:
- A lifetime risk of breast cancer of about 20% to 25% or greater (based on family history)
- A BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Undergone radiation therapy to the chest before they were 30 years old
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have first-degree relatives with one of these syndromes2
Regular breast cancer screenings are a vital method for detecting breast cancer, often identifying the disease years before symptoms manifest. Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and enhances survival rates. That is why obtaining regular screenings is an important aspect of women’s healthcare. The following screening guidelines are recommended for women at average risk for breast cancer:
- Between 40-44 years – start annual mammograms
- Between 45-54 years – strongly encouraged to have an annual mammogram
- Over 55 years – encouraged to have a mammogram every 2 years, but can opt for an annual mammogram2
Mammography
Screening mammograms are considered the gold standard of breast imaging because they detect breast changes in women who show no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. Annual mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting the disease as early as possible. We don’t just offer regular mammograms, either. At SRMC, you can receive a 3D mammogram, which provides greater clarity for physicians to better interpret results. Mammography can detect benign tumors and cysts, unusual breast changes, and macrocalcifications, which can sometimes indicate breast cancer. While mammograms are the best and most recommended way for detecting breast cancer, there are other methods that can help determine if you have breast cancer.
Breast Ultrasound
An ultrasound is helpful if you’ve noticed a lump during a self-exam of your breast. It will determine if the lump is cancerous and identify the cause of any pain, swelling, or redness you may be experiencing. A breast ultrasound is often used as a follow-up after a mammogram with abnormal findings. This test is particularly helpful for people with dense breasts. Breast ultrasounds do not use radiation and can help guide a biopsy, check implant integrity, and evaluate blood flow with Doppler techniques.
Breast MRI
SRMC recently purchased a new MRI with more capabilities and higher levels of accuracy to ensure our patients receive the most accurate results at the fastest rate. Breast MRI does not use ionizing radiation, but instead relies on a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and advanced computing algorithms to create highly detailed images. For people who have a high risk of breast cancer, this test is frequently used in conjunction with mammography as it helps detect any abnormalities found by a mammogram. A breast MRI is not a replacement for a mammogram, but it can be used in conjunction with yearly mammograms for patients who have risk factors associated with breast cancer. MRIs are more likely to detect early cancers that other tests may not be able to observe. This option is ideal to evaluate breast implants for leakage or rupture, as well as responses to breast cancer therapies. They are also used to help guide biopsies when necessary.
Breast PET/CT Scan
PET/CT scans provide vital information for the initial staging of breast cancer and early detection of breast cancer recurrences. Additionally, these scans detect the spread of cancer, monitor treatment response, and help you and your healthcare team establish treatment plans and care goals that fit your preference.
Talk with your doctor for more information about your individual risk factors and the best screening test for you!
1 – https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month/
