Mammograms

OCTOBER 14, 2020

THINK PINK Breast Cancer Awareness Month | 11

Mammograms save lives, offer peace of mind

Mammograms save lives, half a million to be exact.

Since 1989, more than half a million breast cancer deaths have been prevented in the United States, thanks to improvements in treatment and mammograms, according to an American Cancer Society study in 2019.

Technology is helping to make sure those prevention numbers keep increasing.

Hill Country Memorial Breast Center’s 3D Mammography or Digital Breast Tomosynthesis provides the most advanced technology in breast care.

This technology means there are fewer repeat scans and the detection of invasive breast cancer has increased by 40% and increased 27% for all breast cancers.

The 3D technology captures images from different angles with clearer representations, which means smaller cancers can be detected.

“Even with the best technology, it remains a challenge to ensure that women get the mammograms they need,” according to the

Who are mammograms for?

Women under 40 who have a family history of breast cancer or are symptomatic.

Women 40 and older should get annual mammograms.

Women who are 60 and older should get annual mammograms.

HCM website. “More than 5,000 women in Gillespie County alone do not get their mammograms every year.”

Those who receive mammograms at HCM will receive a reward called the Pink Card. It offers discounts and free products and services from local and regional businesses.

Jessica Ottmers Celebrating 11 Years Cancer Free!! IT’S WHO YOU ARE. IT’S WHAT YOU’VE DONE.

Women are encouraged to get an annual mammogram. — Submitted photo