Mammograms

Mammograms are one of the best ways to find breast cancer in early stages. This procedure can identify small tumors up to two years before you or your doctor might be able to feel them. The scans also can catch tiny calcium clusters that are often non-cancerous but can change over time. These tiny lumps cannot be viewed by an ultrasound and may be missed by a breast MRI. This is why mammograms can help save lives.

Learn what to expect.

Novant Health breast centers are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Our board-certified team uses the latest mammography, and standards for the best possible accuracy including:

• Screening mammograms, which can help us find unsuspected changes in your breast tissue.
• Diagnostic mammograms, if we see a change in your breast tissue with a screening mammogram or if you have had a previous breast cancer diagnosis.
• 3-D mammography (breast tomosynthesis), which produces three-dimensional images of the breast, for better cancer screening and detection.

The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women by age 45, with the option to change to having a mammogram every other year beginning at age 55. That’s why we offer convenient locations across North Carolina and Virginia.

Tell your physician or the technologist performing the exam if there is any possibility that you are pregnant. Your doctor may postpone the exam to reduce the possible risk of exposing your baby to radiation.