After-Hours Mammogram Event at Saint Mary’s – October 16

After-Hours Mammogram Event at Saint Mary’s – October 16

Breast cancer affects one in eight women in their lifetime, but early detection through mammograms significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. A 3D mammogram can detect cancer at its earliest stages when treatment is most effective.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Saint Mary’s is making it easier to prioritize breast health with a special after-hours mammogram event on Wednesday, October 16 from 4:45 to 7:30 p.m., by appointment only, at Saint Mary’s Regional Outpatient Department located at 1808 W. Main St., Russellville. This event offers an opportunity to get screened at a convenient time outside of typical business hours, with appointments available every five minutes.

Guests will also be treated to mocktails, cookies and the chance to win door prizes.

To reserve your spot, call 479.964.5999 and schedule your mammogram today. Here’s what you need to know about this potentially life-saving screening:

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of your breast, designed to spot abnormalities that may be signs of cancer. Once it reaches a later stage, breast cancer might feel like a small, hard lump in your chest, but in early stages it may feel like nothing at all. By scheduling preventive screenings, you are more likely to detect breast cancer in these early stages, when treatments are most effective.

When should I get a mammogram?

Most women should get their first mammogram at age 40. After that, you should schedule a mammogram every year, depending on your age, genetic history and other risk factors. Women who are at a higher risk of breast cancer with a family history may need screening mammograms earlier. Ask your primary care provider what schedule is best for you.

What happens during my mammogram?

When you arrive for your mammogram, you will undress from the waist up and change into a robe. Make sure not to wear any deodorants, lotions or perfumes on your upper body on the day of the exam, as these may interfere with the screening process.

A female technologist will help you position your breasts one at a time between two plastic imaging plates. These plates will gently squeeze your breast, flattening the tissue as your technician takes x-ray pictures from multiple angles. This process will take 20 to 30 seconds. You may feel some discomfort, but it’s important to remain in this position as it allows for clearer images using less radiation.

Once your screening is complete, a radiologist will review your x-rays and send your doctor a report. If your doctor spots something unusual, they may request a diagnostic mammogram or a breast ultrasound. Remember: most findings are not cancer. It’s common to get unusual findings after your first mammogram, because your doctor does not have previous images for comparison. Often, an unusual finding can be just a spot of dense tissue.

If this is your first mammogram, don’t worry! Some women feel concerned that the screening will be painful, but today’s medical equipment is designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by scheduling your mammogram this October and know that you’re taking an important step in managing your breast health for the years to come.

To learn more about your risk for breast cancer, take our Health Risk Assessment. To schedule your mammogram, call 479.964.5999.