Early Detection of Breast Cancer

The most important thing to know about breast cancer is that early detection saves lives. Early detection has contributed to the happy, active and fulfilling lives of many thousands of women. Early detection also increases your treatment options and aids in the process of reconstruction, if necessary. Aspen Valley Hospital, with its caring staff of certified professional healthcare providers, state-of-the-art equipment, and acknowledged excellence in the field of breast cancer, stands as your ally against the threat of breast cancer.

THREE STEPS TO HEALTH, HAPPINESS, AND PEACE OF MIND

1. Monthly breast self-examinations (BSE). The importance of learning this simple technique cannot be overstated. It is your first line of defense against breast cancer. To learn this procedure, call your doctor's office or the Diagnostic Imaging Department at Aspen Valley Hospital. The importance of self-examination lies in the fact that no one has more familiarity with changes in your breasts than you. Also, this free examination, which should begin by age 20, can be done comfortably in the privacy of your home on a regular basis, with no appointments or scheduling necessary.

2. Yearly examination by a medical professional. The purpose of a yearly exam is to ensure that you don't overlook anything during your monthly self-examination. The combination of the self-exam and a yearly professional exam provide one line of defense against the possibility of breast cancer. Of course, should your monthly self-exam reveal anything which causes you concern, schedule a visit with your doctor immediately.

3. Mammograms . Mammography is the best screening tool available today. This simple procedure, which uses a special, very low-dose x-ray, may detect a growth several years before you or your healthcare provider can feel it. The American Cancer Society recommends a baseline mammogram at age 40 and an annual mammogram after age 40. By establishing a baseline, mammograms done on a regular basis thereafter can help reveal even the smallest change in your breasts.

CERTIFIED PERSONNEL AND STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT

Aspen Valley Hospital's standard of service is as current and effective as any in the country. Personnel are certified by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists (ARRT) and have additional certification as registered mammographers. State-of-the-art mammography and ultrasound equipment are certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR). In addition to our highly-qualified radiological technologists and doctors, Aspen Valley Hospital's extended staff of oncologists, general and reconstructive surgeons, mental health professionals, and others ensure complete, confidential, and compassionate care.

MAMMOGRAPHY AND ULTRASOUND FOR A THOROUGH EXAMINATION

Mammography employs a special, safe, low-level x-ray to "see" the inner structure of your breasts. At least two views are taken of each breast, one from the top and the other from the side. While mammography may be a little uncomfortable, it allows for detection of lumps or growths which might otherwise remain obscure. (This discomfort may be lessened by having your mammogram 8 - 12 days from the onset of menses.)

A complementary procedure to mammography is ultrasound, which Aspen Valley Hospital uses to further evaluate some lumps. Using sound waves, the painless ultrasound provides a different perspective of your breast to help establish or confirm a diagnosis.

SPECIAL LOW-COST PROGRAMS AND EASY REFERRALS

Through a grant from the Aspen Chapter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Aspen Valley Hospital is able to provide mammograms at reduced rates for qualifying women. Inquire about this program when you schedule your mammogram.