Health Screenings and Mammograms
Leading in Women’s Health Screenings
Women's health has been a growing topic of conversation in recent years, and we’re proud to offer a comprehensive range of screening and imaging services designed to empower you to take charge of your well-being. We go the extra mile to ensure that you're supported every step of the way, as Orlando Health assigns each patient a dedicated personal navigator, providing invaluable guidance through testing and any necessary follow-up treatment. Among the many screenings we offer are:
- DEXA scans
- Thyroid screenings
- Screening and diagnostic 3D mammograms
- Diagnostic ultrasound
- Laboratory testing
Mammography (Breast Diagnostic Screenings)
In the fight against breast cancer, we believe that early detection is your strongest ally. Of all the different screening methods available, mammograms are among the most important tools we have to diagnose breast cancer, allowing us to intervene and treat it at its earliest stages.
Breast lumps can sometimes be an indicator of breast cancer or another breast abnormality, so we recommend that women take care to notice any changes they feel in their breasts. Breast lumps may be on the skin along or beneath the arm, or within the breast tissue. While touch alone cannot diagnose cancer, breast cancer lumps typically present as firm and irregular in size, and they may or may not be painful. Fortunately, a mammogram can detect a lump before it reaches a size large enough to be noticeable by you or your doctor.
It is important that you speak to your doctor about your family’s cancer history, prior mammograms and the optimal time to start screening. Additionally, consider the potential advantages of consulting a genetic counselor for a genetic risk evaluation. You also should familiarize yourself with your breasts, since it is crucial that you inform your doctor about any changes, such as lumps, alterations in skin texture, nipple changes or discharge.
Get Your Mammogram Scheduled Today
Did you know screening mammograms are covered by your insurance and take as little as 20 minutes? With same-day or next-day availability, you can conveniently fit your screening into your busy schedule — and it might help save your life! Call (727) 553-7801.
A mammogram is a diagnostic procedure involving the use of a low-dose X-ray machine to create an image of the breast. This is achieved by directing small bursts of X-rays through the breast, which are then captured by a detector on the opposite side. At Orlando Health, we employ advanced high-definition digital technology coupled with tomography, also known as DBT, to obtain highly detailed images of the breast.
During the mammogram, your breast will be positioned on a flat support plate and gently compressed with a parallel plate called a paddle. These images are then digitally transmitted to a computer. Subsequently, a specialized medical professional known as a radiologist will carefully examine the images for any indications of breast cancer or other irregularities, including benign tumors, calcifications (whether benign or malignant), fibroadenomas or cysts.
We understand that you may be experiencing some apprehension or uncertainty in anticipation of your upcoming mammogram. Please know that you are not alone in feeling this way, and it is perfectly normal to have questions and concerns about the procedure.
The primary objective of screening mammograms is to detect breast cancer in women before any noticeable symptoms arise. This procedure is highly effective in identifying breast alterations that may be indicative of cancer years before any symptoms manifest. In a screening mammogram, a technologist captures images of each breast from both the top and side angles. These images are then reviewed by a radiologist later. If further imaging is deemed necessary, we will contact you to schedule a follow-up appointment. It's important to note that you do not require a prescription for a screening mammogram.
If you exhibit signs or symptoms of a breast abnormality, like a lump, your doctor will advise a diagnostic mammogram to thoroughly assess your breast tissue. Unlike a screening mammogram, a diagnostic mammogram does require a prescription. Any supplementary imaging needed will be conducted with the standard four-view examination, and your results will be provided on the same day.
If you have a history of breast cancer treatment, your doctor also may recommend a diagnostic mammogram. It's important to have a conversation with your doctor about any family history of breast or other types of cancers, as this information can be crucial for your overall healthcare management.
Talk with your doctor regarding the optimal time to start having regular mammograms. Your doctor serves as a partner and a guide in maintaining good health and can provide advice on screening procedures and risk mitigation approaches that align with your specific age, medical history and current health status.
The American Cancer Society recommends:
The American Cancer Society suggests that women with an average risk profile should begin screening mammograms at the age of 45. However, if you have a personal or family history of cancer, your doctor may recommend you start your screening mammograms even before the age of 40.
- Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.
- Women within the age range of 45 to 54 are advised to undergo mammograms on an annual basis.
- For women aged 55 and older, they have the option to transition to mammograms every two years, or they can opt to continue with yearly screening.
- Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.
