UNDERSTANDING YOUR BREAST SCREENING OPTIONS

October is breast cancer awareness month and considering that one in eight women in the U.S. has been diagnosed with breast cancer, it is a disease that has affected many of us in some way.

The good news is that breast cancer is often very treatable. Regular screenings are critical in detecting it at its early stages when treatment is most effective. As a radiologist who specializes in women’s imaging and the director of breast imaging at Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI), I am very focused on this topic. There are many options for breast screening today and the knowledgeable team at AMI is here to help you —and other healthcare providers—determine which screening tests are best based on your health history and individual risk factors.

First, what does “screening” mean? Screening for breast cancer means regularly checking your breasts for cancer before there are any signs or symptoms of disease. Mammography is the primary screening test for the early detection

of breast cancer. Additional screening tests, performed in conjunction with mammography, can improve cancer detection if you have dense breast tissue (as seen on imaging) or if you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Which screening test/s you take will depend on various factors, including your age, family history, medical history and breast density. It is important to discuss screening options with your healthcare provider. However, the information below can provide you with a general overview of the most common types of breast cancer screening.

1. Mammogram
Mammography is the first step in screening for breast cancer. Experts recommend that women 40 and older get a mammogram every year. Earlier mammograms may be recommended if there is a strong family history of breast cancer.

AMI’s mammography has been using state-of-the-art 3D technology (also known as tomosynthesis) since 2014. 3D technology is the most advanced form of mammography, providing multiple images of the breast in greater detail and improving cancer detection.

2. Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS), is a specialized ultrasound system, designed to image the entire breast. ABUS is recommended as an additional screening test for women with dense breast tissue.

Breast density can hide a developing cancer or mass. ABU creates detailed 3D images of each breast allowing earlier detection of masses. When performed at the same time as your annual mammogram, these studies can be read side by side by our radiologists, providing more clarity and better cancer detection for women with dense breasts. AMI is the only site in south central Montana to offer ABUS.

3. Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Breast MRIs are most often used for screening women who have a high risk for breast cancer or have previously had breast cancer. MRI can also be used as a diagnostic tool for suspected breast cancer or to help inform treatment options for women with a breast cancer diagnosis. AMI also offers abbreviated

Breast MRI, which provides the advanced technology of an MRI in a fraction of the time. This allows for a more affordable screening option for women who are at high risk, or with very dense breast tissue. AMI is the only imaging center in the region offering this powerful screening tool.

In addition to deciding what screening is best for you, where you receive your care is also very important. AMI provides comprehensive breast care and easy access—including sameday appointments—to support your needs at every stage of breast care. We offer the widest range of screening and diagnostic services with the most advanced technology. Our specialized team of clinical staff and radiologists provides expertise in both performing the tests and interpreting the results. In addition, AMI’s Breast Care Specialist provides personalized care to patients throughout the screening, diagnostic and treatment process. Partnering with Bozeman Health ensures access to a multidisciplinary care team specializing in all areas of breast health and treatment. This combination of expertise and patient-centered focus is critical in supporting patients’ clinical and emotional needs throughout their care journey.

Meghan McKeon, MD is a breast radiologist and the medical director for breast imaging at Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI). AMI is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and is a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence in Montana, with two convenient locations in Bozeman. You can learn more at amibozeman.com.

To schedule an appointment, or for additional information, please call 406414-5201.