Health

LGMC upgrades breast cancer detection

LGMC now offers better breast cancer detection with the Selenia Dimensions 3D mammography machine.

Selenia Dimensions 3D Mammogram Machine

Lafayette General Medical Center is now offering better breast cancer detection with the installation of the Selenia Dimensions 3D mammography machine, which examines breast tissue layer by layer, producing a superior 3D image that is much more detailed than traditional 2D mammograms.

By detecting breast cancers earlier, these mammograms can help to prevent unnecessary biopsies. The high-resolution technology that the Selenia Dimensions machine implements also detects 41 percent more invasive breast cancers at earlier stages than 2D mammography alone.

Another key feature of the Selenia Dimensions machine is that it conforms to the natural contours of the breast, providing a more comfortable and even compression across the entire breast. The high resolution images taken with the machine can also be instantly reviewed for more timely results. These images can also be viewed in a side-by-side comparison with previous images.

While the Centers for Disease Control does not list Louisiana among the highest rates of breast cancer incidents, the Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium reports a higher mortality rate for cancer in Louisiana than most other states. That is in part attributed to late or incurable stage diagnosis of the disease.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women get yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continue to do so for as long as a woman is in good health. Women are also recommend to get a clinical breast exam about every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over.