The Role of Radiology in Women ’ s Health
By Radiology Associates RadiologyAssociatesImaging . com
The practice of radiology plays a big part in nearly every person ’ s life at one point or another , whether it is getting an x-ray to assess an injury or a routine screening for early cancer detection . For women , one recommended screening is mammography , which has shown to catch many breast cancers too small or deep inside tissue to be felt during a breast self-exam . While the rate of breast cancer continues to impact 1 in 8 women during her lifetime , the rate of related deaths has dropped substantially , demonstrating the effectiveness of screening mammography as a way to discover cancer early , when it can be most easily and effectively treated . The American College of Radiology recommends annual screening for women beginning at age 40 . Women with an added risk factor , such as a close relative with breast cancer , may want to begin screening at age 35 . The American Cancer Society recommends that women ages 45-54 receive mammograms every year , while women 55 and older can elect to have them every two years .
Advances in Technology
Since screening mammography became widely used in the 1970s , it has evolved greatly . Today , there ’ s Digital Breast Tomosynthesis , or 3D mammography , an FDAapproved exam that provides highly views of breast tissue from multiple angles to capture even tiny cancers before they have a chance to spread . Unlike standard mammography , 3D mammography is sophisticated enough to image dense breast tissue , which affects roughly 47 % of women . Compared to standard mammography , 3D detail delivers 41 % better discovery of invasive breast cancers and a 40 % reduction in false positive results , reducing anxiety and the need for follow-up testing .
While most women understand the importance of regular mammography screening , many put it off because the breast compression involved is uncomfortable . That ’ s why Radiology Associates uses the SmartCurve™ Breast Stabilization System , which provides a curved platform that aligns with the breast . 93 % of women surveyed found it more comfortable than standard mammography , and 80 % said it would encourage them to have mammograms on schedule , preventing potentially dangerous delays .
Diagnostic Care
When something questionable shows up on a mammogram , there ’ s breast MRI , a non-invasive , radiation-free supplemental test that highlights breast tissues to differentiate benign abnormalities from cancer . MRI can also provide an additional screening exam for high-risk patients . MRI , as well as CT , ultrasound and stereotactic x-ray imaging , are also used for image-guided biopsy , a test where questionable cells are collected using a fine needle . This outpatient exam delivers concrete answers , enabling treatment when needed .
Other women ’ s imaging services include pelvic ultrasound and DEXA bone density scanning for osteoporosis detection and management .
With the right information , women can win the battle against diseases like breast cancer and live their most fulfilling lives . If you ’ re due for a screening mammogram , make an appointment with your provider today .
For more than 60 years , Radiology Associates has been a local leader in advanced diagnostic imaging and interventional services , with six convenient locations across three counties in east Central Florida .
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