What is Breast Cancer?  

Breast cancer is a disease where the cells in the breast grow out of control and form tumors. Breast cancer affects anyone with breast tissue (that means men too). While it is most common in women, men should still be aware of any abnormal changes to their chest.  

Why are we focusing on Breast Cancer?  

Breast Cancer is the 2nd most common diagnosed cancer amongst women. Cass County’s breast cancer rate is 139.9 per 100k. Cass ranks 35th out of 98 counties (1 = highest rates). Between regular self-checks and annual mammograms, breast cancer can be caught early, making it easier to treat.  

Signs & Symptoms  

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass on the breast. Other symptoms could include swelling of the breast (even without the presence of a lump), skim dimpling (think like an orange peel), breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction, nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking, or thickened, nipple discharge, or swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone. While these symptoms don’t mean you have breast cancer, it is always important to get checked out by your primary care provider.  

Screening Guidelines:  

Women aged 40 – 75 should have a mammogram annually.

What is a mammogram?  

A mammogram is a low dose x-ray of the breast used to detect breast cancer  

Process Overview 

It can be scary to get a mammogram, especially the first time. Here’s what to expect when your provider mentions it’s time to schedule a mammogram.  

• • Registration will get you scheduled with radiology, the department that does the mammograms. Once your Primary Care Provider has put in the order, you can schedule it directly through MyChart.
  • On the day of your appointment, it is recommended not to wear any deodorant or powder. These can leave a residue that can interfere with the results.
  • Once you arrive at the hospital, you will check in at the registration desk, they will then direct you to the radiology waiting room.
  • 2 images of each breast will be taken (4 in total), a tech will position you to ensure the best angle and view
  • The breast tissue will be compressed – this improves the visualization and reduces the amount of radiation needed  
  • It takes roughly 7 seconds to capture the image and then the compression will be released automatically  
  • After all the images are captured, you are complete! You can carry on with your day as planned  
  • Results can be expected within 1-2 business days  

Cost Estimate  

Next Steps 

If something abnormal is found on your initial screening a member from the radiology team will contact, you to set up additional imaging  

One abnormal finding does not automatically mean cancer – only about 0.5% of women with an abnormal mammogram will be diagnosed with breast cancer  

As women age breast tissue changes over time, it is not uncommon for noncancerous lumps, cyst, or calcifications to form  

Any of these can show up as “abnormal findings” on a mammogram  

The radiologist will get you scheduled for additional screening to get a better idea of what the abnormality is  

Second screenings can include a diagnostic mammogram (a more detailed, magnified picture) 

ultrasound

Core needle biopsy (use of a hollow needle to remove tissue samples)