By Annette Pinder
Most women know the importance of routine mammograms. Mammograms help reduce deaths in women ages 40 to 74 at average risk of breast cancer. Additionally, cancer.gov states that 4% of all breast cancers diagnosed in the U.S. occur in women under 40, and the rate of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses has been climbing.
Jenna Gage, D.O., a fellowship trained lead interpreting breast physician at Buffalo Medical Group (BMG), recommends that women of average risk begin getting mammograms at age 40, and that those at increased risk start mammograms by age 25-40 (depending on risk), and annual breast MRIs starting at age 25-30 (per ACR guidelines).
Still, many women put off getting screened. Their reasons include fear of the results, discomfort, lack of childcare, inability to take time off work, not having symptoms, having small breasts, fear of radiation, thinking they are too young and healthy, not having a family history of breast cancer, or assuming that if their doctor did not refer them for screening, they don’t need it.
Meanwhile, BMG is doing what they can to encourage women to make their screening appointments,” said Kayla Ellis, RT(R)(M), Imaging and Cardio-Pulmonary Manager. “We know that women appreciate a calm environment, so we focused on enhancing the esthetics of our women’s health center. We partnered with the AKG Art Museum to fill the walls with beautiful artwork. We provide each patient with a gift bag that contains unscented, aluminum-free deodorant to use after the exam, along with chocolate and mints. Our new Keurig machine allows women to enjoy hot cocoa, tea, and coffee while they wait. Rooms are dimly lit, and women can choose the type of gown they would like to wear — either a full-length gown with armholes, a maroon, pink-lined t-shirt kimono, or a shoulder cape that is white with pink and purple squares. There also aren’t any men walking through the center,” said Kayla.
“We also want women to feel reassured in knowing that we use 3-D tomography in both of our locations, which provides clear and detailed images,” said Dr. Gage. She adds, “We take two images of each breast, and any abnormalities are discussed with the patient quickly to effectively expedite scheduling of biopsies and any treatment that may be needed. We also perform biopsies in house. In fact, one of the best things about coming to BMG is that patients who already see our specialists and primary care providers can have all of their needs met in one location without going anywhere else, and where they already feel comfortable. And, since it is a Women’s-only imaging center, you can rest assured there are no men walking through.”
So how much difference do esthetics make? “A lot,” says Dr. Gage. “Patients say they love the new look and feel, and appreciate the unique touches that help put them at ease. It’s a more personalized approach, and they tell us it makes them feel they are receiving individualized care.”
Schedule your mammogram today. It could save your life. Call 716-631-1000 to make an appointment, and learn more at https://www.buffalomedicalgroup.com/taking-mystery-mammograms.
