
Preferred Imaging Centers proudly supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month in an effort to help raise awareness of breast cancer and to highlight the importance of early detection in Chicago and nearby areas like Elgin and Orland Park, Illinois. Each year in the United States, about 270,000 women get breast cancer and 42,000 women die from the disease. Women at average risk for breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years from age 40 to 74. And…in case you’re curious, a breast ultrasound is typically not painful. While you might feel some pressure from the transducer moving across your breast, it should not be uncomfortable.
Our team of caring experts offer imaging technology such as Ultrasound to help your health care provider detect and diagnose breast cancer for patients in or near Chicago. In this article we’ll introduce you to Ultrasound imaging and its value for breast cancer detection.
How does an Ultrasound help with breast cancer detection?
Ultrasound can play a significant role in breast cancer detection, often complementing other imaging techniques like mammography and MRI. Here’s how ultrasound is beneficial:
Complementary Imaging:
- No Radiation: Ultrasound does not use radiation and can differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts more easily in dense breasts.
- Mammography Limitation: While mammography is the primary screening tool for breast cancer, it can be less effective in women with dense breast tissue where cancer might be obscured.
- Diagnostic Tool: When a mammogram or physical exam detects an abnormality, ultrasound is often used for further examination and can provide a more detailed view. It helps determine if a mass is likely benign or requires biopsy.
- Guiding Procedures: Ultrasound can guide procedures such as needle biopsies, ensuring that the tissue sample taken is from the precise area of concern, thus increasing the accuracy of the biopsy.
- Screening for High-Risk Patients: For women at higher risk of breast cancer or those with dense breasts, adding ultrasound to mammography can be a complementary screening process to increase the detection rate. However, this isn’t universally recommended as it can also increase false positives.
- Real-Time Imaging: Because an Ultrasound provides real-time, dynamic imaging – allowing doctors to see how a lump or mass responds to pressure or movement, which can help in understanding the mass and/or its characterization.
- Cost and Accessibility: Ultrasound machines are generally less expensive and more widely available than MRI equipment, making it more accessible in various healthcare settings. Preferred Imaging Centers understands that affordability matters!
- Safety: Unlike mammograms, ultrasounds do not use ionizing radiation, making them safer for repeated use if necessary. No Radiation means a safer imaging!
- Younger Women and Pregnancy: It’s particularly safer and useful for younger women or pregnant women where minimizing radiation exposure is important. Bottom line…Ultrasound is safe for younger patients.
Bottom line: Preferred Imaging Centers offers Ultrasound imaging for mammograms – a safe and affordable way to help in breast cancer detection. If you are a patient in need of a Breast Exam in or near Chicago Preferred Imaging Centers has expert technicians, equipment and multiple locations to serve you!
What are the best ways to detect and prevent breast cancer?
Detecting and avoiding breast cancer involves a combination of awareness, lifestyle choices, and regular screening. Here are some of the best strategies:
CANCER DETECTION:
- Mammograms:
Regular mammograms are one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early, especially in women over 40 or those with a family history. The frequency can be annual or biennial, depending on individual risk factors and medical advice. - Clinical Breast Exams (CBEs):
These should be part of your regular health check-ups. A healthcare provider can detect lumps or changes that might not be noticeable to you.
Self-Exams:
While not a substitute for professional exams, knowing how your breasts normally look and feel can help you notice changes more quickly. Look for changes in size, shape, skin texture, or nipple discharge. - Genetic Testing:
If you have a strong family history or known genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, genetic testing can help assess your risk. - Ultrasound MRI:
A safe and affordable way for women to get mammograms.
Prevention/Avoidance:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Obesity, especially after menopause, is a risk factor for breast cancer. - Exercise Regularly:
Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, plus strength training. - Limit Alcohol:
The risk of breast cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. If you drink, limit yourself to less than one drink per day.
Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Menopause:
If possible, avoid or limit the use of combined hormone therapy, as it can increase breast cancer risk. Discuss with your doctor about alternatives. - Breastfeed:
Breastfeeding, especially for longer periods, might reduce breast cancer risk. - Understand Your Risk:
Know your family history. If there’s a history of breast cancer, discuss with a healthcare provider about additional screening or preventive measures like prophylactic surgery or medication. - Healthy Diet:
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat might help. Some studies suggest a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids and fatty meats could be beneficial. - Avoid Smoking:
Smoking is linked to many cancers, including potentially breast cancer. - Limit Exposure to Radiation and Environmental Pollution:
While not always in your control, being aware of and minimizing exposure to radiation and certain chemicals might help. - Medications:
For high-risk women, medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene might be prescribed to reduce the risk. Discuss the benefits versus side effects with your doctor.
Remember, while these strategies can reduce risk, they do not guarantee prevention. Early detection through regular screenings remains crucial. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice based on your health history and risk factors.