Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, but early detection through regular screenings can save lives. Mammograms detect changes in the breast years before they can be felt, offering the best chance of successful treatment.
Risk Factors:
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing breast cancer:
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Personal history of breast cancer or genetic mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2
- History of chest radiation before age 30
- Age 40 or older
- Black/African American or Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
Symptoms:
While many cases of breast cancer are caught before symptoms emerge, it’s important to watch for:
- New lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm
- Changes in size, shape or appearance of the breast
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), especially if bloody
- Persistent pain in a part of the breast
Screening:
We recommend annual screening mammograms starting at age 40, or earlier for individuals at higher risk. Mammograms are a quick, outpatient procedure that take about 30 minutes.
At Stony Brook, we offer 3D mammography, which has been shown to improve accuracy and cancer detection rate by up to 40 percent.
Screenings are held in our community offices, hospital locations and brought to you throughout Long Island in our Mobile Mammography Van.