Breast Cancer Screening and Detection

Your Guide to Breast Cancer Screening and Early Detection

The best way to protect yourself is through early detection. When breast cancer is found early, treatment is often simpler and more effective. Your screening appointments are not just tests—they are a powerful way to gain peace of mind and advocate for your long-term health. We encourage you to discuss your personal risk factors with your health care provider to determine the right screening schedule for you.

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Breast Cancer Screening Tips

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Learn how early detection through mammograms improves survival and reduces treatment intensity. Discover screening guidelines and advanced imaging at CHRISTUS Health.

Learn what it means when you find a lump and how not all are cancerous.

Breast Lump Evaluation and Diagnosis

Not all breast lumps are cancerous, but all should be checked. Learn how CHRISTUS Health evaluates breast lumps through imaging, biopsy, and expert clinical care.

Common Breast Cancer Screening Methods

There are several methods used to screen for or detect changes in breast tissue. Your doctor will recommend the combination that is best for your age, personal history, and risk level.

Primary Screening Tools (for most women at average risk):

Mammogram (2D and 3D): An X-ray of the breast tissue.
- Digital Mammography (2D): Standard two-dimensional X-ray images.
- Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (3D Mammography): Creates a three-dimensional image of the breast, which can be especially helpful for women with dense breast tissue.
Clinical Breast Exam (CBE): A physical examination of your breasts and underarm area performed by a healthcare professional.

Supplemental Screening Tools (Often for women at high risk or with dense breasts):

Breast Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast. It is commonly used as a follow-up to an abnormal mammogram or to supplement mammography in women with dense breasts.
Breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures. This is typically reserved for women at a very high lifetime risk of breast cancer.
Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI): A nuclear medicine test that uses a special camera and a small injection of a radioactive tracer to highlight any cancerous activity.

Important Awareness:

Breast Self-Awareness: Knowing the normal look and feel of your breasts and reporting any changes (lumps, pain, discharge, skin changes) to your doctor right away.

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