V. Ways to screen for breast cancer

The national guidelines for routine breast imaging begin at age 40. Some women have increased risk for breast cancer, due to personal or genetic factors, that requires screening to start at an earlier age. The first signs of a breast cancer are often noted on a mammogram, before it can be felt, thus screening is important to ensure early detection and diagnosis. Early positive results could mean less aggressive treatment and better outcome/survival.

i. Self-Breast Exam

A self-breast exam is a good way to familiarize yourself with your own body and therefore, if something new or different occurs you will be more likely to identify it. Your health care provider should also perform a breast exam as part of your physical exam.

ii. Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound, also called a sonogram, uses sound waves to create the image of the breast tissue. It can target areas of concern to see if they are cysts (fluid filled) or tumors (solid which can be benign or malignant) and can assess blood flow to these areas.   

iii. Mammography and 3D tomosynthesis

A mammogram uses X-rays to create images of the breasts.  A screening study is performed at regular intervals for women without symptoms and a diagnostic study is performed when there is an area of concern. The 3D studies allow for better visualization, especially when the breast tissue is dense.

iv. Breast MRI

Women who already have a breast cancer diagnosis or for those who are at higher risk for breast cancer (for example, has a genetic risk factor) are often evaluated with a magnetic resonance image (MRI) to give a clearer and more detailed image of the breast.

 v. Core Biopsy and Aspiration

When there is an area of concern for cancer in the breast, the only way to make a definitive diagnosis is to have the pathologist look at the tissue at the cellular level – that, requires an aspiration or biopsy to obtain this tissue. The location and size of the area that is of concern determines which biopsy technique is used. The biopsy can be done under mammogram, sonogram, or ultrasound guidance. 

Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.