Breast Cancer Screening and Risk Reduction
Breast cancer that’s found early, when it’s small and has not spread, is easier to treat successfully. Getting regular screening tests is the most reliable way to find breast cancer early. The American Cancer Society has screening guidelines for women at average risk of breast cancer, and for those at high risk for breast cancer.
These guidelines are for women at average risk for breast cancer. For screening purposes, a woman is considered to be at average risk if she doesn’t have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation known to increase risk of breast cancer (such as in a BRCA gene), and has not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30. (See below for guidelines for women at high risk.)
- Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year. Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
- Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.
- All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do.
How to get screened for breast cancer
Schedule a screening mammogram by calling 907-212-3151 or schedule through MyChart. An order is not required for this screening.
3D Mammography is the most exciting advancement in breast cancer detection in more than 30 years. Providence Imaging Center utilizes Selenia Dimensions mammography machines in our Anchorage center as part of our ongoing commitment to offer the latest in breast cancer screening. A 3D mammogram consists of multiple breast images taken in just seconds to produce a 3D image. The doctor can then look through the tissue one millimeter at a time seeing detail inside the breast in a way never before possible.
Providence Imaging Center has a breast cancer screening program that incorporates computer-aided detection (CAD), which helps analyze images using a sophisticated software program, which highlights areas on a mammogram that contains features associated with cancer. The radiologist reviews the images conventionally then reviews the special CAD markers, if any, identified by the CAD software.
Providence Imaging Center also has a mobile mammography coach that makes regular visits to many Southcentral communities. Pre-registration is required, and there is no charge for the coach visit. Patient mammograms are covered by most insurance, and there are programs available to cover the costs of those who cannot afford mammograms. Please ask your scheduler for details.
Private Scheduling:
Providence Imaging Center Mobile Mammography can be scheduled for private visits at businesses, churches or community events for employees, members or guests who are due for an annual breast cancer screening.
- We come to your location
- Quick, 20-minute screenings (pre-scheduling requested)
- Private and comfortable
Learn more about private visit opportunities, or contact our Mobile Mammography coordinator for more information and to schedule your private visit.
- Reduce drinking alcohol. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Women who have 1 alcoholic drink a day have a small (about 7% to 10%) increase in risk compared with those who don't drink, while women who have 2 to 3 drinks a day have about a 20% higher risk.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Women who are overweight also tend to have higher blood insulin levels. Higher insulin levels have been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer after menopause is higher for women who gained weight as an adult. For women who are overweight or obese before menopause, the risk is actually lower.
- Staying active: Evidence is growing that regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk, especially in women past menopause. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week (or a combination of these). Getting to or going over the upper limit of 300 minutes is ideal.
Know the facts, risk factors, and cancer screening options. View and download educational material below.