The American Cancer Society reports that one out of every
eight women in the United States could develop breast cancer.
Women have heard whispers of this publicized.To women, science
has become a relief when they are facing
the possibility of breast cancer.
 Do
women know they can find this scientific relief through Lee Memorial
Health System? Yes, indeed, digital mammograms are relaxing nerves
and soothing fears, says Diana Hammock, RT, (R)(M), Manager of the
Breast Health Centers for LMHS.“ Women come in very nervous and
anxious,” Diana says. “They may have a very close family member who
was diagnosed with breast cancer, and until they know their
mammogram results, they tend to worry. Scientific studies and the
state-of-the-art technology of digital mammography are relieving
anxiety.”
The Breast Health Center at the Outpatient Center at The
Sanctuary provides the digital mammograms.
Diana compares the concept of digital mammograms to a digital
camera. Traditionally, analog mammograms would use X-rays to create
images on film. Digital mammograms use X-rays to create images on a
detector, eliminating the use of film. “Radiologists read standard
mammogram films on a light box, and the films are stored in a jacket
under the patient’s name,” Diana explains. “Digital mammograms
convert images to digital pictures that are reviewed by a
radiologist on a computer monitor. We don’t have jackets of film.
All images are stored in Impacs system. We’re not
shipping film. We’re shipping a CD. We always have a copy of
the patient’s mammogram images.”
While Diana applauds women for researching mammograms and
educating themselves about breast cancer treatments, she wants to
remind women that the screening outweighs the technique. “Mammogram
screenings are the first step to early
detection,” she stresses. “If you don’t have digital, an analog or
film screening is acceptable. It is still of utmost importance to
have a screening on an annual basis after the age of 40.”
Whether a woman has a digital or an analog mammogram, a woman’s
breast will still be compressed, and four images will be taken.
Young women with extremely dense breasts or women with a strong
family history of breast cancer are encouraged to pursue a digital
mammogram, though the most immediate benefit of the recent
technology happens to be a shorter exam time. “Women frequently ask
me, ‘How long will this take?’” says Lisa Ferris RT, (R)(M), a
Mammography Technologist for 23 years. “When I’m finished with a
digital mammogram, my patient doesn’t have to wait while I develop
and check the film. I’m finished with the pictures, and she can
dress and be on her way.”
To request an appointment for a digital mammogram, call
239-424-1499.
To learn more about the Regional Cancer Center,
click here.
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