"I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do the something I can do." ~ Helen Keller

As women, we often spend more time taking care of those we love than ourselves. There’s something you can do today to take care of yourself and you won’t even have to travel far to do it. Wondering what it is? Your yearly mammogram.

The Christ Hospital Women’s Imaging Center provides advanced digital mammography technology at three convenient locations. All-digital equipment means earlier detection, a quicker process and no films to wrestle with. Combine these elements with a compassionate and dedicated staff led by physician expertise and you’ve a got special recipe.

Our center was designed for women, by women, and our goal is to provide you with a coordinated, personal approach to care. We also want to provide you with health education to last a lifetime.

What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a radiographic image that gives a picture of the internal structure of the breast. There are two types of mammography: screening and diagnostic.

A screening mammogram is performed on women who have no evidence of breast disease. Using a mammography machine, a radiologic technologist obtains two views of each breast. Screening mammography is the best way to detect breast cancer early. A screening mammogram is similar to other screening exams such as a PAP smear, PSA for prostate cancer, fecal occult blood to detect colon cancer and a glucose test to detect diabetes.

Yearly screening mammography should be a routine procedure for all women ages 40 and older. Women with a strong family history (mother, sister or daughter) of premenopausal breast cancer may wish to begin screening earlier.

Diagnostic mammography is performed when a possible abnormality, such as a lump, has been found on a screening mammogram or upon clinical examination of the breast. It includes special views in order to better evaluate the abnormality. A diagnostic mammogram is read by the radiologist at the time of the exam.

What is digital mammography?
Comparing digital mammography to traditional film mammography is exactly like comparing a regular camera to a digital camera. The images are acquired in the same way through breast compression, but the data is stored electronically instead of being stored on film.

Full-field digital mammography transfers images to a computer so they can be electronically enhanced. Digital mammography allows the radiologist to focus on areas of concern, which enhances readability and interpretations of the images, and may reduce patient recalls for additional views. The compression and positioning are the same as for conventional film mammography.

Eventually, when facilities have the capability to manage this data, digital mammography will be more convenient for the physician. Full-field digital mammography may be more sensitive for the detection of cancer in women with dense breasts, such as younger women or older women on HRT. However, at this time, there is no proof that digital mammography is better than film mammography. Currently, a large national study is underway to determine whether film and digital mammography detect the same number of cancers or if one method is better than another. The data should be available in the next 3-5 years. Eventually when the cost comes down, a digital mammogram will be more convenient than conventional mammography.

Call us today to schedule your mammogram appointment at 513-585-2760. Don’t wait!

The Christ Hospital Women’s Imaging Center
Medical Office Building
2123 Auburn Avenue, Suite 324
Cincinnati, Ohio 45219

Mason Testing Center
608 Reading Road
Mason, Ohio 45040

Delhi Testing Center
5310 Rapid Run Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45238

For more information about other tests for women that we offer in addition to mammograms, please visit www.TheChristHospital.com.

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