With everyone concerned about the coronavirus, lots of people are postponing or skipping standard preventive healthcare measures, including annual screening mammograms. While we should all take every precaution to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we should not ignore other important health protocols, including early breast cancer detection. 1 in every 8 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime, a statistic that sounds pretty scary. However, when breast cancer is caught before it can spread to the lymph nodes, it has a nearly 100% five-year survival rate. Members of our own Special Forces are breast cancer survivors themselves, and can attest to the power of early discovery and quick treatment. That’s why it’s imperative to remain vigilant, even during a pandemic. Breast cancer isn’t going to wait for things to go back to normal, and we can’t either.
Cancer research shows that getting an annual or biennial mammogram significantly increases breast cancer survival rates. It is wise to get a baseline mammogram by age 40 or even earlier if you’re at elevated risk so there is a unique picture of your healthy breast tissue. That way, future mammography images can be used in comparison to identify changes – no matter how small – as soon as they develop. Tomosynthesis, also called 3D mammography, is the gold standard in screening exams for breast cancer. This FDA-approved exam captures deep views of breast tissue from multiple angles to detect the tiniest abnormalities, even in dense breast tissue. 3D mammography is a leap forward in screening, delivering 41% better discovery of invasive breast cancers and up to a 40% reduction in false positive results, for less anxiety and fewer unnecessary follow-up exams. 3D screening mammography is completely covered by most insurance providers – if you’re unsure about your coverage, give us a call and we’ll find out.
When something questionable shows up on a mammogram, of course you and your medical team want accurate answers right away. RAO’s breast health battalion offers a complete array of supplemental exams, including stereotactic- and ultrasound-guided biopsy, breast MRI and SCOUT® radar localization placement for safer, faster, more customized surgical options. Sure, breast cancer is a challenge we must all recognize, but together we have the power and resources to forge an unrelenting and vanquishing front line.
Keeping You Safe During Your Visit
Rest assured that RAO’s Breast Health Allies use rigorous safety protocols to protect you and our staff from COVID-19, including temperature monitoring, mandatory masks, sanitizing of equipment between patients, rapid appointment times and minimal close interaction, so you don’t have to put off your important screening. Just call us for an appointment that suits your schedule.
