Breast health Q&A
When it comes to breast health, Legacy knows that one size does not fit all. Women of different ages, with different risk factors and different situations, all deserve health services tailored to their individual needs. Below are answers to some common questions about breast health.
"Where can I have my questions answered in person?"
As part of Legacy's commitment to breast health for all women, we offer free telephone or in-person consultations with medical specialists. To schedule your consultation, just choose your location and call.
"Do I really need a mammogram? Is a digital mammogram better?"
One out of every nine women will develop breast cancer, so every woman should consider herself at risk and have an annual mammogram. All Legacy hospitals use digital mammography, because studies show that this advanced technology delivers lower doses of radiation than traditional film mammography.
"Didn't I read somewhere that annual mammograms aren't necessary?"
Legacy supports the American Cancer Society guidelines that recommend a mammogram every year. Learn more about annual mammograms.
"Does it matter where I get my mammogram?"
Absolutely. Legacy Health has won multiple quality awards for the excellence of its breast health care, including designation of our Breast Health Centers as Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.
"But I've only just turned 40. Isn't that too young for breast cancer?"
The incidence of breast cancer does rise with age, but unfortunately no one is "too young" for the disease. The American Cancer Society recommends that every woman have a baseline screening mammogram by age 40, and an annual mammogram after that. Mammograms are so important that they are now covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans.
"I've never had a mammogram. Just thinking about breast cancer makes me nervous."
It's natural to feel some anxiety, but having a mammogram is a positive step you can take to protect your health -- for your own sake and your family's. At our three Breast Health Centers, a caring nurse coordinator will guide you through your mammogram and the private, comfortable atmosphere will put you at ease.
"There's breast cancer in my family. Does that mean I'm going to get it?"
A family history of breast cancer is all the more reason to have regular mammograms, but simply inheriting a hereditary factor is not enough to cause a cancer to develop. In fact, 90 to 95 percent of breast cancers are not related to genetics. To learn more, see this information sheet on breast cancer genetics.
"I'm a patient now, and I could use some support."
Living with a diagnosis of cancer and its treatment can have a profound effect on your functional, emotional, social and spiritual needs. That's why we offer a wide range of support services to help you and your family achieve the highest quality of life possible. And to join a support group, please see the question below.
"I'm a breast cancer survivor, and I'd like to stay in touch with others."
Congratulations on coming through this challenge! To connect with other patients and survivors, as well as hearing informative speakers, please join one of our breast cancer support groups located at:
> Legacy Good Samaritan
> Legacy Meridian Park
> Legacy Salmon Creek
Breast cancer patients can also contribute to breast cancer research by donating tissue to the Legacy Tumor Bank, or by taking part in on of the Legacy Research clinical trials.
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