50+ Lifestyles

Be Aware of the Benefits of Screening Mammography

By David Aanestad, MD, FACS
Davenport Surgical Group P.C.

October is breast cancer awareness month. As a breast surgeon at the Kenneth H. McKay Center for Breast Health at Genesis, I am all too aware of the devastating effects a breast cancer diagnosis can have on a patient and their family. Although advances in treatment have improved survival, early detection is still a key to optimal breast cancer outcomes

Recommendations about the most appropriate age to start screening mammograms vary. It is prudent to discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor before starting a screening program. Many women with average breast cancer risk start annual screening at age 40. Women with higher than average risks or dense breasts may benefit from earlier screening or supplemental screening tests, such as MRI or ultrasound.

When a screening exam identifies a possible abnormality, additional pictures are often performed to take a closer look. If an abnormality is suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. This is usually done by a radiologist who can take a small sample of tissue with a precisely placed needle inserted under the guidance of a mammogram or ultrasound. Needle biopsies are relatively painless and can often eliminate the need for unnecessary surgery.

If a biopsy reveals cancer or pre-cancer, a patient is usually referred to a surgeon with experience in breast cancer treatment. Cancers identified on screening exams are almost always small and amenable to breast-conserving surgery with excellent survival and cosmetic outcomes. Small cancers are also more likely to be diagnosed at an early stage which can sometimes eliminate the need for chemotherapy.

The potential benefits are clear. Celebrate breast cancer awareness month and talk to your doctor today about a screening mammogram. The surgeons at Davenport Surgical Group, PC are available for consultation by calling the Kenneth McKay Center for Breast Health at (563) 421-3200.

David Aanestad MD, FACS is a staff surgeon at Davenport Surgical Group PC. For more information call
(563) 823-9300.