Breast health

Screening mammogram

Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA HealthONE Rose recommends annual mammogram screenings for women between 40 and 74 years old. A woman's decision to undergo breast cancer screening should be made in consultation with her physician. Patients who are considered high risk for developing breast cancer should consult their physician about when to begin screening.

Abnormal mammogram results

If our radiologist finds something abnormal in your images, our team will contact you within two business days of your appointment to schedule a follow-up visit. This visit may involve taking additional images and/or performing a biopsy, both of which are done in our breast center.

If your mammogram or breast ultrasound results in a cancer diagnosis, we are here for you. Our hospital provides a comprehensive cancer care program, featuring advanced treatment methods and expert physicians. We will be by your side every step of the way on your path to survivorship.

How to prepare for your mammogram

We want you to feel comfortable even before you walk through our doors. Knowing what to expect is a crucial part of that.

Here are some things to think about when preparing for your mammogram:

• Although the actual exam takes 15 to 20 minutes, please be aware that your appointment could take up to 45 minutes.
• Consider scheduling during a time when you expect your breasts to be the least tender (such as avoiding the week before your menstrual cycle).
• Please do not wear any deodorant, powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts—these products can impact the imaging results.
• Wear a two-piece outfit so you only have to remove the top.

Women experience many changes in their breasts throughout their lives and even throughout each month. Some changes can be frightening as they mimic the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The good news is, more often than not, women who undergo further testing with a biopsy are given a noncancerous diagnosis. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of breast biopsies result in a benign diagnosis.

The most common types of benign breast disease include:

• Breast cysts
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Fibroadenoma
• Intraductal papillomas
• Traumatic fat necrosis in the breast

If your benign condition is painful or causes discomfort, your physician may recommend treating it through surgery or medications. Other conditions may need no treatment at all. Some mild breast conditions put you at a higher risk for breast cancer. In this case, your doctor will recommend ongoing monitoring.

Occasionally, your physician may recommend follow-up care on your benign breast condition through surgery or medication. Our expert breast team includes a coordinator to help guide you to meet with our dedicated team and learn about evaluation and risk assessment recommendations.

It's important for women with high-risk breast conditions to work closely with a breast care expert and develop a personalized breast cancer screening and prevention plan. In some cases, this may involve more frequent screenings, genetic testing, preventive medications and prophylactic surgery.

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (303) 253-3225.