MAMMOGRAMS
SAVE
LIVES
B
reast cancer is the number one cause of cancer-related
deaths in women in the United States, but advances in
breast cancer treatment have resulted in most women
with breast cancer surviving the disease, despite the frightening
statistics. According to The Breast Center’s Medical Director,
Lisa Bash, MD, most women who are diagnosed with breast
cancer do not have a family history.
“There is no true way to prevent breast cancer, and at this point
in time our best hope is for early diagnosis, which studies have
shown leads to decreased mortality from breast cancer,” she said.
The American College of Radiology recommends annual
screening mammograms starting at age 40 in average risk women.
Women with a family history of breast cancer in a mother or
sister are advised to start screening 10 years prior to the age of
their relative at the time of diagnosis.
A routine screening mammogram generally consists of two
views, or pictures, of each breast. “Mammography is performed
using a very low dose of radiation, which is not considered to put
a person at increased risk of malignancy in the future,” explains
Dr. Nicole Lacz. “In women with dense breasts, screening with
CHILTON MAGAZINE WINTER 2016
Francesco ridolFi/getty images/istockphoto
Although we devote October to recognizing
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the breast
imagers at The Breast Center at Chilton Medical
Center – Dr. Lisa Bash and Dr. Nicole Lacz
remain dedicated to educating women about the
benefits of early detection all year long.