Breast Health Imaging
Symptoms, Detection, Treatment
Many women think breast cancer can’t happen to them and that they don’t need to be concerned with taking precautions to detect breast cancer early or prevent breast cancer all together. That’s simply not true. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in America. One of the most effective methods, besides self-breast exams and clinical exams to detect breast cancer, is an annual mammogram. Your health care provider at the Mankato Clinic knows that early detection is a top priority, that is why we have invested in state-of-the-art imaging equipment for our Diagnostic Breast Center.
How to detect breast cancer
There are three important steps to the early detection of breast cancer:
Breast Self-Examination
Monthly self-examinations should begin at the age of 20. Ask your physician to teach you the proper way to perform a self-exam. Report any lumps, thickenings or changes to your physician immediately.
Clinical Breast Examination
Annual clinical examinations should begin at the age of 40. Between the ages of 20 and 39, clinical breast exams should occur at least every three years.
Mammography
All mammograms work by sending x-rays through the breast tissue to obtain images. These pictures are then analyzed for abnormalities and/or assessed for changes from previous tests. Annual mammograms should begin at the age of 40. If your family has a history of breast cancer, you should consult with your physician to determine the need for screening prior to the age of 40.
Our Breast Health Imaging Center offers Breast Health Registered Nurses that will coordinate, educate, and assist you with your diagnostic experience. We understand how personal these situations are and how important it is that you are comfortable with your surroundings and care.
Every woman should be concerned with breast health. You owe it to your family, your friends and yourself to find out more about early detection. Contact your Mankato Clinic provider today to make an appointment or request one here.
The Breast Health Imaging Center is located on the lower level of the Main Street location, within the Diagnostic Imaging Center.
Mankato Clinic Breast Health and Imaging Center offers:
- Screening and Diagnostic Mammography
- Dedicated Certified Mammographers
- Registered ARDMS Breast Sonographers
- Breast Health Registered Nurses
- Digital diagnostic work-up with same day results for mammographic and palpable lesions and other clinical findings
- Care for women with augmented breasts
- Ultrasound
- Needle localizations
- Core Biopsies-Stereotactic and Ultrasound Guided
- Cyst Aspirations
- Breast MRI
- High risk screening and education for patients with high risk factors
- Sage Program assistance for those that meet income guidelines
The professional and caring staff at the Mankato Clinic Breast Imaging Center is focused on providing you with the latest technology and information available today regarding breast care, including the detection of breast cancer.
Click here for education about your upcoming mammogram
