Have You Had Your Annual Mammogram?

October 15, 2018

Dr. Maureen Magut Charette reviews 3D mammograms on a computer screen. The method allows radiologists to see more detailed views of the breast tissue. 

One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. The good news is over 3.3 million breast cancer survivors are alive in the U.S. according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We encourage you to do your monthly breast self-exam and make sure you are up-to-date on your annual mammogram. Mammograms are one of the most effective tools in detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages when chances of survival are highest.

Mankato Clinic offers 3-dimensional tomosynthesis (TOMO) screening mammograms. TOMO mammograms are proven to detect more breast cancers in women of all breast types. In fact, we recommend 3D mammograms as the primary method for screening.

Many women know the anxiety of receiving a callback for additional imaging. Compared to conventional or 2D mammograms, 3D mammograms reduce callbacks by 40 percent. That’s wonderful for women.  

If you haven’t had your mammogram this year, contact your primary care provider’s office. Annual mammograms should begin at age 40. Women with a family history may require screenings earlier.

Once your provider orders your mammogram, you can simply walk in to the Breast Health Imaging Center in the lower level of the Main Street location in Diagnostic Imaging. Stop by right after your visit with your provider, come back later or set an appointment. An appointment is not necessary, but some find it easier to remember if it’s on their calendar.  

You have the choice of a 2D or 3D mammogram so a Mammography Technologist will explain your options. Many insurance plans cover 3D mammograms just as they do conventional ones. You can call the number on the back of your insurance card to check.

We also offer Saturday Muffins and Mammograms! Mammograms are available by appointment the second Saturday of each month beginning at 8:30 a.m. Your visit includes a muffin and coffee! We now offer 7:45 a.m. appointments on weekdays and 5 p.m. appointments Monday-Thursday. Please call 507-389-8570.

We make it easy and convenient for you to get your annual mammogram.