Breast cancer screening

A 3-D mammogram will feel just like a 2-D mammogram. It requires the same number of X-rays and the same amount of compression as a 2-D mammogram.

Unless there is concern about a breast problem, women who have received a COVID-19 vaccine are advised to wait 4–6 weeks after their second dose before having a screening mammogram.

All vaccines, including COVID-19, can cause temporarily enlarged lymph nodes in a woman’s armpits. If this is seen on a mammogram, radiologists may recommend follow-up imaging.

After your annual screening mammogram (using either 2-D or 3-D technology), your imaging provider will notify you by letter if you have dense breasts. At Prisma Health, we encourage patients who have dense breasts to talk with their physicians so they can make an informed decision about the need for 3-D mammography at their next annual screening mammogram.

A three-dimensional (3-D) mammogram, also known as breast tomosynthesis, is the newest FDA-approved technology for breast imaging. It produces a 3-D picture of your breast by taking several X-rays from different angles. A computer turns these X-rays into 3-D images using technology similar to a CT scan.

Research shows that for women with dense breast tissue or strong risk factors for developing breast cancer, 3-D mammography provides improved visualization and the following patient benefits compared to 2-D mammography:

• Detects 41 percent more invasive breast cancers.
• Detects cancers 15 months earlier.
• Reduces false positive readings by up to 40 percent.
   

Currently Medicare and some commercial insurance plans cover 3-D mammography. We encourage patients to contact your insurance plan before your next screening mammogram to learn about your plan benefits.

All women should begin regular screening mammography at age 40, or younger if they have a family history of breast cancer.