Early detection is a key factor in successful treatment of breast cancer. At the Abramson Cancer Center, our specialized radiology team uses the latest breast cancer screening technology to provide a personalized, comprehensive evaluation. Our goal is to identify cancer in the earliest possible stage.
Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines
It is important to follow breast cancer screening guidelines. Regular screening helps us detect abnormal growth early, even before you may notice symptoms. To know when and how to get screened for breast cancer, it is important to check with your primary care provider or OB/GYN and to know your breast cancer risk.
The American Cancer Society breast cancer screening guidelines for women at an average risk for breast cancer depend on your age.
- Women who are 40 years old: May begin yearly screening with a mammogram.
- Women over 40: Get a mammogram every year.
- Women 55 and older: Continue with an annual mammogram or switch to a mammogram every other year until your life expectancy is less than 10 years.
High-Risk Breast Cancer Guidelines
If you think or know you have a high breast cancer risk (20 to 25 percent or greater according to risk assessment tools), discuss your family history and individual screening plan with your primary care provider or OB/GYN. Often, women at higher risk get a breast MRI as well as a mammogram every year, beginning around age 30.
A family history of cancer might mean you are at risk for developing certain hereditary cancers, including breast, ovarian, colon and pancreatic cancer. This could be because of an inherited change in your DNA, lifestyle choices or other factors. Knowing your family history of cancer can help you to understand your risk.
Download and fill out this Family Cancer History worksheet to help determine if you're at high risk for breast cancer and are a candidate for genetic testing. You can print it out and take it to your doctor to help discuss this topic.
Benefits of Regular Breast Cancer Screenings
Breast cancer screenings help detect breast cancer early so patients receive the most proactive intervention as quickly as possible. Because early-stage breast cancer is easier to treat than late-stage breast cancer, the chance of survival is higher the earlier it is detected.
Benefits of regular breast cancer screenings include:
- Early cancer detection
- Improved prognosis and chance of survival
- Less invasive treatment options, often without the need for mastectomy (breast removal)
- Comfort and reassurance of a normal result, specifically for those with strong familial risk
Routine screenings offer a chance for individuals, especially those at high risk or with family history, to lower their risk of a fatal or life-altering diagnosis.
How to Check for Breast Cancer with Breast Imaging
Our radiologists understand the importance of an early breast cancer diagnosis. Our in-depth knowledge and expertise provide you with results you can trust. Screenings at Penn Medicine utilize the following breast imaging technology:
3D Mammogram
We rely on 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, to look for cancer. This advanced technology uses low-dose X-rays to produce a three-dimensional picture of breast tissue.
A traditional 2D mammogram takes X-rays of the breast from top to bottom and side to side, while a 3D mammogram captures images in "slices" of the breast. The final images are more precise. They allow us to identify changes in breast tissue that may not be seen with a 2D image.
Typically, 3D mammograms cost the same as traditional mammograms and are covered by insurance.
Can't Afford a Mammogram? If you are uninsured or underinsured and over the age of 40, the Penn Medicine Breast Health Initiative offers free mammograms.
Breast MRI
When a mammogram does not supply enough information about your breast, our expert radiologists use breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). A breast MRI does not replace a mammogram. When used together, these tests offer more comprehensive evaluation for patients who need it.
Breast MRI is most commonly used for high-risk patients, but it may also be used for other reasons. An MRI is more costly than a mammogram. Check with your insurance company about coverage for a breast MRI before having the test.
Breast Ultrasound
We use breast ultrasound as a compliment to other screening tests or to investigate changes in the breast that can be felt but are not seen on a mammogram. This noninvasive technology uses sound waves to create images. If you are under the age of 30 and feel a lump in your breast, we may use ultrasound instead of a mammogram.
Following Up on an Abnormal Breast Cancer Screening Test
Being called back after your breast cancer screening likely means that there was a slightly abnormal finding that requires closer attention but does not necessarily indicate a cancer discovery. This may also suggest a cyst, calcification, or breast tissue that needs to be reimaged due to density.
If there was an irregular area of the breast discovered that may indicate the potential existence of cancerous cells, a second round of imaging will be scheduled to diagnose the mass (often called a diagnostic mammogram), along with a possible ultrasound or MRI. The results of your test will most likely be shared at this appointment; if cancer is detected, a breast biopsy will be needed to confirm. Diagnosis and breast cancer staging information will be discussed in subsequent appointments.
If the results of your breast cancer screening show abnormal findings, it is important to speak with your doctor about what was detected and your options. No matter the outcome of your breast cancer screening, our Penn Medicine diagnostic experts will be with you every step of the way.
Breast Cancer Screenings at the Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
We are at the forefront of breast imaging. At Penn's Abramson Cancer Center, we offer a comprehensive Breast Cancer Program from screenings to survivorship. Our nationally recognized specialty physicians and surgeons provide education, care and support needed to help patients navigate their diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Imaging experts: Our board-certified radiologists specialize in breast imaging. Their expertise ensures you get a precise assessment, reducing the need for additional imaging. Meet our breast imaging team.
- Leaders in advanced breast imaging: As a leader in the field of breast imaging, we were early adopters of both breast MRI and 3D mammography. The breast imaging experts who oversee your clinical care are leaders in research. They help create the breast imaging guidelines used by radiologists around the country.
- Personalized screening: We use the latest imaging technology to provide an accurate evaluation for every woman.
- Screening close to home: We offer expert breast cancer imaging at Penn Medicine locations throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our radiologists and breast cancer specialists collaborate seamlessly across the network to provide you with the best care possible, no matter where you live.
Request an Appointment
To make an appointment, please call 800-789-7366 or request a callback.