Mammography and Breast Imaging

Breast cancer risk factors

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Some of the most significant include:

• Age: The risk increases as a woman gets older, with most cases occurring in women over the age of 50. Because of this, it’s important to start regular mammograms at age 40 so your doctor can establish a baseline and monitor for changes over time.
• Family history: Women with a close relative (mother, sister or daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves, especially if the relative was diagnosed at a young age or if multiple relatives are affected.
• Personal history: Women who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer, especially if they were diagnosed at a young age, are at higher risk of developing the disease again.
• Dense breast tissue: Women with dense breast tissue, as seen on a mammogram, are at higher risk.
• Hormonal factors: Women who began menstruating before age 12 or who have gone through menopause after age 55 are at higher risk. Additionally, women who have taken hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for an extended period may have an increased risk.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking have all been associated with an increased risk.
• Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase a woman's risk.

It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will develop the disease. However, if you have any of these risk factors, you may need to be screened more frequently or at an earlier age than those without risk factors. It's important to discuss your individual risk factors and screening schedule with your doctor so you can have peace of mind about your future health.

Additional breast imaging services

While an annual screening mammogram is still the best way to detect breast cancer, there are a number of other breast imaging tests your doctor may order based on your specific needs or symptoms. Baylor Scott & White offers the most advanced technology available to screen for and diagnose breast cancer and other conditions.

• Bone density screening
• Breast MRI
• Breast needle localization
• Breast risk assessment
• Breast ultrasound
• Cyst aspiration
• Image-guided breast biopsy
• Stereotactic breast biopsy

Patient education resources

From common breast conditions to imaging tests, check out the resources available to help you learn more about your health.

• Bone density scans
• Breast biopsy
• Breast calcifications
• Breast cysts
• Breast lumps or lumpy breasts
• Breast MRI
• Breast needle localization
• Breast pain
• Male breast conditions
• Mammography overview

Patient education videos

Scroll through the carousel to find the breast imaging topic you need.

• Ultrasound-guided biopsy
• Stereotactic breast biopsy
• Breast MRI