Mammography and Imaging

Screening mammograms remain among the most effective methods for detecting breast cancer.

A womna getting a mammogram

Who needs a Mammogram?

While age guidelines for mammography are important, they can change. Discuss your screening plans at each yearly exam with your PCP or Well Woman provider.

Click each age group to learn about the recommended screenings for all women:

Please note, these guidelines are for women at average risk for breast cancer. For screening purposes, a woman is considered to be at average risk if she doesn’t have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation known to increase risk of breast cancer (such as in a BRCA gene), and has not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30.

Next Steps if your Mammogram has Questionable Results

My screening Mammogram had questionable resultsI need a diagnostic Mammogram

Please call our Radiology Access Center at (409) 772-7150, Option #1, to speak with a scheduling specialist.

I had a positive reading on my diagnostic Mammogram Or I have been told that I need to consult with a breast health specialist

If you have a positive reading on your diagnostic mammogram:

A Patient Navigator will contact you to schedule a follow-up appointment

If you did not receive your mammogram at UTMB Heath:

Call the access center at (800) 917-8906 to schedule an appointment

Screening Mammography Saves Lives

Everyone should know what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do. Mammograms are low-dose x-rays of the breast. Regular mammograms can help find breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is most likely to be successful. A mammogram can find breast changes of early cancers years before a lump is felt or other symptoms develop.

Mammograms are not perfect. They miss some breast cancers. There’s also a small chance of being diagnosed with a cancer that never would have caused any problems had it not been found during screening. (This is called overdiagnosis.) It's important that women getting mammograms know what to expect and understand the benefits and limitations of screening.

Dr. Robinson discusses screening recommendations, appointment procedures and the importance of breast self-awareness to determine when screening is best for you.

5 Mammogram Preparation Tips

Arrive 15 minutes early
DO NOT wear any deodorant, powder or lotion under your arms or around your breasts
Wear a two-piece outfit (not a dress)
Bring a list of dates and locations of previous breast screenings or mammograms
Bring films and reports from previous imaging not performed at UTMB Health

Why Choose UTMB Health for Breast Imaging

UTMB Health provides the most comprehensive mammograms using advanced technology for the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer including:

Screening

Diagnostic

As a UTMB Health patient:

  • You are cared for by imaging professionals specially trained and fully accredited in mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy and breast ultrasound
  • You have access to the most advanced state-of-the-art technology used for mammograms, breast ultrasonography, breast MRI and image-guided core needle biopsies
  • We will determine which imaging method will provide you with the most accurate results and greatest comfort, depending on your personal needs

Quality of Care

UTMB Health is recognized for the quality of its breast health programs. These distinguished designations mean you can trust that you will receive the best care for the best possible outcome.

Learn more about these designations:

Your Care Team

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