The National Cancer Institute suggests that women get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years after they reach the age of 40. If you have breast cancer in your family history or find something abnormal during a self-exam, you need to ask your doctor if scheduling a mammogram is right for you.

You hear 'get your mammogram' a lot during October and you might be asking, what exactly does it involve? A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray that acts as a screening test for abnormal changes in the breast tissue. A technician will place each breast (don't worry, it's one at a time) between an x-ray plate and plastic plate. The machine will press down, compressing the breast tissue to a flattened state. You might feel some squeezing and discomfort during compression, but it will only last a few minutes. The wonderful technologists at the Pearlie Harris Center for Breast Health will comfort and guide you through the screening process. That's it! You can do it! Talk to your physician to determine the right time to get your mammogram.

What if something is detected?

For women who have test results come back indicating cancer, a breast navigator is there to guide you on your journey from treatment to survivorship. At Bon Secours St. Francis, a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, Breast Health Navigators, genetic consultant and nurses meet weekly to discuss each case as a team, agreeing upon the best course of treatment prior to surgery. In effect, our patients receive a first, second and third opinion all at the same time for free. Once a treatment plan starts, you don't have to leave the Upstate to receive the best cancer care.

The comprehensive cancer program at Bon Secours St. Francis offers infusion therapy, radiation, expert surgeons and access to clinical trials. The STAR Survivorship program is second to none, and will help you get back to optimal health when your cancer fight is over. It is our mission to beat breast cancer with faith, hope and expertise!