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It’s estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime … and one in 33 will die from it. Regular screening mammograms can reduce a woman’s chance of dying from the disease by as much as 30%. Screening mammograms are often being included in worksite and community wellness programs, and studies show that on-site screenings can increase participation rates to as high as 90 percent (from a 60 to 70 percent rate for services offered off-site). The most important advantage of such a program is its ability to save lives. M. D. Anderson Mobile Mammography The M. D. Anderson Mobile Mammography Program furnishes the same high-quality mammograms and service in your location as those available at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center. The self-contained, 36-foot van contains a LoRad M-III unit, and is completely wheelchair accessible. As soon as the van pulls up to your site, your employees or clients can access quality mammography screening services. Receiving a mammogram aboard our van typically takes no longer than 30 minutes. All mammograms performed on the van are screening mammograms – the most common way to detect early-stage breast cancer. For good breast health, it is important that women follow the guidelines recommended by the American Cancer Society and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, which include annual clinical breast exam by a healthcare professional and monthly self breast exam.
Age 40 First screening exam Age 40+ Every year Women with a first-degree blood relative (mother or sister) with breast cancer may begin having mammograms at an earlier age. They should consult their physicians about appropriate follow-up. Women who have had breast cancer, exhibit signs or symptoms (a breast lump or other abnormality), or have breast implants should have diagnostic rather than screening mammograms. Due to the need for monitoring by radiologists, diagnostic mammograms are performed at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. Our Mobile Mammography staff can help those who need diagnostic mammograms schedule these appointments. The Screening Process A woman enters the van through a reception area. The woman then proceeds to the private dressing room next to the mammography suite where a brief breast-related history is taken. After the mammogram is taken, she dresses and returns to the reception area, where she is informed about how her results will be communicated. Literature about breast health, cancer prevention and general medical topics is available on the van. All medical information and mammography results are strictly confidential. The woman will receive a letter with the mammography screening results within two weeks. A copy of the mammography report is sent to her physician. Follow Up If the results are abnormal, the woman will receive a phone call to discuss follow-up recommendations. Participants will have the option of seeing their own personal physicians, or coming to M. D. Anderson for additional evaluation. Mobile Mammography Van gifted by Please call Gayle McMorrow at 713/745-4428, or Karen Spears at 713/745-4056, with any questions.
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Screening Mammography Guidelines