Breast health

Detecting breast cancers and conditions early can significantly improve the efficacy of treatment, so we work to help you get fast and accurate testing. In addition to providing breast biopsies for certain cases, our breast diagnostic centers offer a wide variety of imaging services.

Breast density evaluations

The density of your breast is influenced by the quantity of tissue you have. Breast tissue is made up of a mixture of tissue types, including fibrous, glandular and fatty tissues. Fibrous and glandular tissues appear white on a mammogram while fatty tissue appears black. Your breasts are considered to be dense if you have a lot of fibrous or glandular tissue but not much fatty tissue.

Elevated breast density can put you at increased risk for developing breast cancer. Additionally, increased density can make it more difficult to accurately read mammograms. Your healthcare provider should be able to assess the density of your breasts and recommend you to a radiologist for further testing if needed.

Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Breast MRIs don't use radiation. Instead, they use powerful magnet technology and 3D imaging techniques. This allows your provider to look deeper into the breast to find abnormalities that might not be visible through other types of exams.

Breast MRI may be used to:

• Screen women who are at risk for developing breast cancer
• Evaluate an abnormality found on a mammogram
• Evaluate a tumor after a breast cancer diagnosis
• Determine if silicone breast implants have ruptured

Breast MRI is not a replacement for a mammogram, which is still the best tool for breast health screenings.

Breast ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is an imaging test that does not involve the use of radiation. This imaging procedure may be used to further evaluate abnormalities that show up during a mammogram.

If you are 30 years old or younger and find a lump in your breast, your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound before a mammogram to evaluate the lump.

Mammogram

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of your breasts used to detect breast cancer. The X-ray provides a detailed image which shows any changes in breast tissue that might not yet be pronounced enough to feel by hand.

To schedule your mammogram, call our diagnostic scheduling line at (877) 319-7744.

3D mammogram

Our hospitals are proud to offer 3D mammography (also known as tomosynthesis). A 3D mammogram provides a clearer image of your breast tissue. During the process, multiple images are taken in just seconds to produce a 3D image. Your radiologist will meticulously evaluate your breast tissue, layer by layer. The fine details of the breast tissue are more visible in the 3D images, making it easier to detect a tumor or other abnormalities early.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the U.S. However, with regular screenings, breast cancer can be detected earlier, when it is more easily treated. We offer these screenings as part of our breast cancer program.

When to get screened for breast cancer

At Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Virginia, we suggest the following breast cancer screening guidelines:

• Monthly breast self-exams beginning at 20 years old
• Annual mammogram screenings for women between 40 and 74 years old with an average risk of developing breast cancer

We also suggest you discuss your individual breast cancer risk with your doctor. Women who are considered at high risk of contracting the disease may need to begin screening mammograms sooner and more frequently.

Breast cancer risk factors

The average woman has a 12 percent chance of developing breast cancer. Your age and breast density affect your risk for breast cancer, so it's important to note your risk can fluctuate throughout your lifetime.

There are multiple breast cancer risk models, however, the most widely used is the Tyrer-Cuzick risk model, which evaluates your personal and biological family's medical history. When your Tyrer-Cuzick lifetime risk is 20 percent or greater, you are considered high risk.

Factors that increase your risk include:

• Atypical breast tissue
• Breast density
• Certain medications
• Family history of breast cancer
• Genetics
• Hormonal variations

Breast care for women at high risk of developing breast cancer

If you have an increased chance of developing breast cancer, our High-Risk Breast Clinics at Henrico Doctors' Hospital and Johnston-Willis Hospital offer supplemental screening services to detect and treat breast cancer in its earliest stages.

Other services offered at our High-Risk Breast Clinics include:

• Genetic counseling
• Nutrition counseling
• Pharmaceutical risk reduction education
• Smoking cessation assistance

If you have been identified as high risk, ask your doctor about a referral to one of our High-Risk Breast Clinics.

We want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your service. In order to make your experience as stress-free as possible, we recommend that you:

• Bring your previous mammogram and/or breast ultrasound results with you.
• Let your physician and your mammographer know if there is a chance you may be pregnant.
• Schedule your mammogram after your menstrual cycle, when the breasts are less tender.
• Skip deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under the arms or near the breasts the day of your exam.
• Wear a two-piece outfit on the day of your appointment, so it's easy to remove your top for the exam.

If you are scheduling a breast exam online at one of our hospital locations, please use our hospital imaging appointment request. If you are scheduling at an outpatient center, please visit our outpatient imaging center patient information page.

To schedule your breast imaging exam, please call our diagnostic scheduling line at (877) 319-7744.