Your Guide to Breast Cancer Screening

Last updated 8 months ago

Breast cancer is a disease that can affect both women and men at any age. Though rare in men, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women no matter their race or ethnicity and claims more than 40,000 lives each year. However, techniques for detecting breast cancer have become both more advanced and accessible over the last several decades. At Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center, we provide extensive breast cancer screening options for patients in the Las Vegas area, including the following:

Clinical Breast Exam

A clinical breast exam is a manual examination by a physician or nurse to detect signs of breast cancer, such as tissue lumps or nipple discharge. Starting at age 20, women should have a clinical breast exam every three years. At age 40, female patients should receive an annual clinical breast exam.

Mammography

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It is the most effective way to identify signs of breast cancer that cannot be felt or detected by a clinical breast exam. Women should undergo a baseline mammography at age 35. Once they turn 40, patients should get a mammogram every year.

Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to take images of the breast. A physician may recommend a breast ultrasound for women with dense breast tissue, or if a mammogram has already detected an unidentifiable mass within the breast.

Breast MRI

When a mammogram or breast ultrasound cannot yield conclusive results, some women may undergo a breast MRI. A breast MRI uses a magnetic field and radio wave energy to create pictures of the breast. Typically, an MRI can give a much clearer image of potentially cancerous lumps and masses and allows the physician to accurately determine the next course of action for treatment.

Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center offers comprehensive women’s health services, including breast cancer screenings and treatment options. To find out more about our healthcare services, please call our Consult-A-Nurse healthcare referral line at (702) 880-2700.