Staff Report
One in eight women in America will develop breast cancer during her lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer in the United States, after skin cancer.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Many women who develop breast cancer have no symptoms, and this is why regular breast cancer screening is so important. When detected early, breast cancer is easier to treat successfully.
Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital’s Breast Imaging Center now offers Genius 3D Mammography developed by Hologic Inc. The system uses advanced breast tomosynthesis technology that has been proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers and decrease the need for additional testing.
A Genius 3D mammography exam creates a three-dimensional image of the breast structure that allows the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time. This provides a clearer image that enables seeing through overlapping tissue to detect more invasive breast cancers, often at an earlier stage.
Mammography exams using the Genius 3D are FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone, and the exam reduces callbacks by up to 40 percent.
The Breast Imaging Center also offers the Hologic SmartCurve breast stabilization system. SmartCurve features the first-of-its-kind curved surface (in contrast to the traditional flat paddle) that mirrors the shape of a woman’s breast to reduce pinching and discomfort. Smart Curve is clinically proven to deliver a more comfortable mammogram without compromising image quality.
Appointments can be scheduled online through MyChart at Cottagehealth.org/mammo or by calling 805-681-6459.
