Mammograms are essential to the work we do every day at the OSUCCC – James by helping us diagnose and treat breast cancer.
Many breast cancers are found by mammograms before symptoms even appear. This early detection is important for improved outcomes and successful treatments.
While scheduling and receiving your annual mammogram might cause some anxiety, you can rest assured that your breast exam will be performed by experienced health professionals and read by radiologists who specialize in breast imaging.
We have the most advanced imaging technology in our Clarity HD 3D mammogram system, which provides not only clearer pictures of your breasts but also more comfort with a redesigned paddle that follows the natural curvature of your breast.
Our specially trained breast radiologists have refined and detailed expertise that helps them detect even the smallest change in breast tissue. This allows for quicker detection as well as reduces the incidence of false positives, where someone might need to return for another mammogram just to find out they don’t have cancer.
We know no mammogram is routine, but we can help make the process easier, more comfortable and less worrisome for you. If you are not a MyChart user, call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 800-240-4477 to schedule a mammogram.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of your breast. It’s used to screen for and diagnose breast cancer.
During a mammogram, your breast is pressed between two plates to flatten it while an X-ray is taken. Pictures of your breast are then displayed on a computer screen to be examined by an experienced radiologist. Mammograms can be used to detect cancer even before symptoms appear or when there is a concern, such as a lump or enlarged breast. This simple test has been proven to reduce your risk of dying from breast cancer.
Screening mammogram
A screening mammogram, or your annual mammogram, is done when no symptoms have occurred. We can detect a tumor before it can be felt. Our clinics use 3D technology, also known as breast tomosynthesis, as our standard. Ohio law provides for insurance coverage of all screening mammograms, including tomosynthesis.
Diagnostic mammogram
When you have symptoms, such as a lump or breast changes, we’ll take a closer look using a diagnostic mammogram. Usually, this involves a 3D mammogram for a clearer picture and more images to give us a better understanding of what might be occurring. Further testing, such as ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biopsies, might also be needed.
Mammogram technology improves imaging and patient comfort
Who should get a mammogram?
The breast cancer experts at the OSUCCC – James recommend every woman should have a mammogram each year beginning at the age of 40 as this protocol has been proven to have the greatest impact.
However, a family history of breast cancer can change the age at which you should start receiving mammograms.
The American College of Radiology now recommends all women, especially Black and Ashkenazi Jewish women, have a cancer risk assessment by age 25 and discuss with their doctor whether early, more intensive screening is needed. For example, if you have a family history of breast cancer, you may be advised to start mammograms 10 years before the age of your family member when she was diagnosed.
Those with dense breast tissue should also be closely monitored. Not only does dense breast tissue slightly increase your risk of developing breast cancer, but it can also mask certain abnormalities on a mammogram, making it more difficult to identify breast cancer. Breast density is detected through a mammogram.
New mammogram recommendations given
National guidelines now recommend annual mammogram screening to begin at age 40 for those who have an average risk of developing breast cancer.
Where to get a mammogram in Ohio
Because there is no routine mammogram, it’s important where you get your screening. Beyond having expert breast imaging radiologists, who are the first line of defense in breast cancer care, we also strive to make mammography services more convenient and accessible.
Each of our mammography locations and our two mobile units are located throughout the Columbus area, so you can receive your mammogram close to home. All 15 sites and two mobile units offer the most advanced digital screening technology using Clarity HD 3D mammography, designed to optimize image quality and enhance comfort while reducing radiation exposure. Our mammogram clinics, which have all received the Breast Imaging Center of Excellence accreditation by the American College of Radiology, can be found at:
- Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center
- JamesCare Mammography at Macy's Easton Town Center
- Cancer Screenings Outpatient Care East *A department of Ohio State University Hospitals
- Mammography Outpatient Care Gahanna *A department of Ohio State University Hospitals
- Mammography Outpatient Care Lewis Center *A department of Ohio State University Hospitals
- Mammography Outpatient Care Upper Arlington *A department of Ohio State University Hospitals
- The Babe Zaharias Center
- The James Outpatient Care
- The James Grove City
- The James Outpatient Care Dublin
- The James Mammography Mill Run
- The James Outpatient Care New Albany
- The James Mammography Pickerington
- The James Mammography Westerville
- The James Mammography Worthington
Our mobile units travel to area businesses, local health departments and houses of worship to offer mammography screenings for employees or members.
Preparing for a mammogram
While you might be anxious about a mammogram screening test or the results, we can help you be more prepared by knowing what to expect. Here are some tips to make your mammogram go smoother:
- Avoid scheduling the test when you’re near or on your period, so your breasts are less tender.
- Don’t wear deodorant, lotions or perfumes as these can affect the image results.
- Wear loose clothing that’s easy to slip on and off.
- Alert your doctor if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Mammogram results
Waiting for results can be the most difficult part of having a mammogram. With our advanced technology and expert radiologists, we’re able to read mammograms quickly and send you the results sooner.
Sometimes you can receive results in a matter of minutes whereas other times you might have to wait a few weeks. The timing of your results depends on multiple factors, including whether you’re having a screening or diagnostic mammogram, the availability of prior studies for comparison and if you’re seeing a clinician on the same date.The radiologist will characterize the findings based on a number system, ranging from 0 to 6, with 0 being incomplete results requiring additional imaging or comparisons of previous X-rays, if they’re available.
Normal results
Normal results will be categorized as a 1 or 2. Even though you have a normal result, you should continue to have annual mammograms to detect any changes. Normal results mean:
- 1 – This is a negative, or normal, test result with no important findings (lumps, suspicious calcifications or structures) of any kind. A radiologist can also use this classification if they choose not to describe benign findings that may be present.
- 2 – While also negative, the doctor found a mass or calcification but it’s benign.
Abnormal results
It’s important to remember that an abnormal mammogram screening does not mean you have cancer. You’ll have to have further tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Abnormal results fall into categories 3-6. They mean:
- 3 – The spot found in the breast has a less than 2% chance of being cancer, but it’s helpful to be safe and put it in this category so it can be watched for changes over time.
- 4 – A suspicious abnormality is detected, and the radiologist will most likely recommend a biopsy.
- 5 – The findings look like cancer and have a high chance of being cancer. Biopsy will be strongly recommended to confirm.
- 6 – This is only used for mammograms showing a known breast cancer, confirmed by a biopsy. For example, images used to see how a cancer might be responding to treatment might be categorized as a 6.
Related Resources
Breast Cancer Prevention and Risk Factors
Breast Cancer Symptoms and Causes
Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Staging
Breast Cancer Treatment
Breast Cancer Treatment Team