Breast cancer affects one in eight women in the United States. A breast cancer diagnosis impacts your physical health, mental health, and family life. While modern technology has helped diagnose breast cancer early, the technology is still advancing. This is because early detection is vital for a positive outcome when it comes to breast cancer. Below you will find some helpful information on the future of breast cancer screening.

Future Advancements in Breast Cancer Screening

Mammograms are often the most effective tool for screening patients for breast cancer. In fact, the method is accurate roughly 85% of the time. While mammograms have a very high success rate, there is always room for improvement.

Digital Mammography:

Instead of the X-ray image on film, a digital mammography X-ray is on a computer screen. This means that the image can be manipulated and magnified. There are only a few hundred digital mammography machines in the country at this time. However, they have a lot of potential to increase the effectiveness of mammography in terms of spotting breast cancer.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

MRI technology involves multiple components to create a cross-sectional picture of your breast. This involves a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer. These three components work together to create an image for your medical provider to review. This technology is currently helpful in collecting information. Still, scientists are currently working on magnetic resonance elastography which will create an image of your breast from the elasticity of the vibrating tissue in your breast.

Ultrasound Technology:

An ultrasound operates by emitting sound waves into your body. This creates a picture of your breast based on the bouncing pattern of the sound waves. Different patterns occur based on the type of tissue the sound waves are passing through. Right now, ultrasounds can only take 2-D images, but advancements to 3-D ultrasound technology would further improve this method.

Telemammography

Accurate mammogram interpretations are integral to your breast cancer outcomes. Telemammography in Texas helps clinicians appropriately manage patient symptoms and provide you with the most accurate information about your diagnosis. Telemammography is the transfer of mammographic images from one place to another. This is a vital component in providing comprehensive healthcare treatment to places where there aren’t enough radiologists to interpret the exams. Women’s health issues can impact your overall health and quality of life. This is why it’s important to stay consistent with your women’s health appointments. Talk with your doctor about what is right for you in terms of frequency and what your risk level is.

If you are forty or above and have not had your first mammogram, it’s time to make an appointment. The process is easy and can benefit your breast health, in addition to your overall health. If you are under forty, talk with your doctor about your family history. You may need to get treated earlier if you have close family members who have had breast cancer. This places you at a higher than average risk which requires more aggressive prevention measures. Early detection is key to having a healthy prognosis.

The Future of Breast Cancer Screening

If you need a mammogram, contact BreastGyn Imagers. The team at BreastGyn Imagers and Dr. Mahesh Shetty have decades of experience in women’s health. BreastGyn Clinic offers an integrated approach to women’s health and they are mindful of patient anxiety and fears. Their goal is to educate, relieve any patient anxiety, and guide patient’s in making the best decision for them no matter what their health issue is. They offer breast imaging services and reliable interpretations from experienced specialists. This is because they are highly experienced with subspecialized expertise in breast imaging and interpretations. Contact BreastGyn Imagers today an appointment!