We understand that women may face a variety of health issues during their lifetimes, with breast cancer as a main concern for most women. The American Cancer Society and other experts recommend all women be screened after age 40. Methodist offers a comprehensive array of breast services at our Breast Center and Diagnostic Centers. 

One out of every eight women will have breast cancer during her lifetime. But with early detection, the cure rate for breast cancer can be as high as 96 percent. Here are three ways to protect yourself:

• Have an annual physical examination.
  
• Practice regular breast self-examination. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends monthly self-exams for women age 20 and older. The ACS also recommends a clinical exam every three years between the ages of 20-39, and every year if you are 40 or older.
  
• Schedule a mammogram regularly. The ACS recommends women age 40 and older get a mammogram every year. Your doctor may suggest changes to the standard schedule based on your personal or family history.

Breast cancer that is found early can be treated more effectively. You can also greatly increase your chances for a complete recovery. Practice the three simple steps and schedule your next mammogram at one of Methodist's convenient locations:

Methodist Diagnostic Center - North
Methodist Diagnostic Center - Midtown
Methodist Diagnostic Center - South (within the Methodist South Hospital)
Methodist Breast Center - Germantown

Screening Mammography

Screening mammography refers to a very low dose X-ray examination consisting of two views of each breast. Screening mammograms are for patients who do not have physical breast cancer symptoms following self exams. This type of mammogram usually takes about 10 minutes and is performed by a registered radiologic technologist.

Once you have received your screening mammogram, your images are processed, compared to your old films/exams and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist. The results of your examination will be reported to you and your physician usually within 7-10 working days by mail.

If your results are abnormal, additional diagnostic exams may be necessary - but this does NOT always mean you have breast cancer. If an abnormality, or questionable abnormality, is detected on your screening exam, you will be notified by mail of the need for additional evaluation.

Preparing for your mammogram:

Avoid scheduling your mammogram procedure during the week prior to your mentrual period to avoid any breast swelling and tenderness you may experience.

On the day of the exam:

• We suggest that you wear a two-piece outfit to make it easier to undress. You will be given a cape to wear.
• Please do not use any deodorant, powder, perfume, creams or lotions above the waist because they leave a residue that may be picked up on the X-ray and possibly interfere with the mammogram results.

Digital Mammography

The digital mammography system is the first of its kind at Methodist South Hospital, which represents the latest advancement in breast cancer screening and detection. Digital mammograms provide better storage of images, produces sharper digital images, and allows better detection of microcalcifications.

To schedule a mammogram at one of our Diagnostic Centers, call 888.777.5959.