Breast Cancer Detection
Early detection is one of the best ways to combat cancer. Catching cancer in its earliest stages gives you the best chances of successfully treating it. Mammography exams may detect breast cancer at an early stage. According to the American Cancer Society's Early Detection Website 
, numerous studies show that early detection saves lives and increases treatment options. With 80%-90% accuracy rate, mammography is extremely accurate, but still not perfect.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional preferably every 3 years. Starting at age 40, women should have a CBE by a health professional every year.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound in addition to mammograms may also be recommended for a select number of women at high lifetime risk to develop the disease.
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center offers cancer screening opportunities through the following:
- Carol Ann Read Breast Health Center
- Alta Bates Summit Imaging Center
(View a list of all imaging locations) - Markstein Cancer Education & Prevention Services
- Women's Health Center in Lafayette
Women With Disabilities
We recognize the unique health care accommodation needs of women with disabilities, and have successfully put in place procedures that ensure that all women receive the same quality services and accessibility to services.
Your doctor's office is one of the best places to keep a regular schedule of annual check-ups and screenings. To select an Alta Bates Summit physician, you can use our Find A Doctor search tool.
Reviewed 09/2010
