Gardner-Webb, Atrium Health and Invision Diagnostics Host Mammogram Screening Event

3D Mammography Appointments Available for Campus and Community Oct. 16

Gardner-Webb University is partnering with Atrium Health and Invision Diagnostics to host a mammogram screening event Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 9am to 4pm. Invision's 3D Mammography Bus will be located at 110 South Main Street in Boiling Springs.

Appointments are required and may be scheduled by calling 877-318-1349.

According to the American Cancer Society, 3D mammograms can find more breast cancers and offer fewer false positives than traditional 2D mammograms. Pam Annas with Atrium Health Employer Solutions also noted the following additional information from the American Cancer Society.

Screening Guidelines

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.

• Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.

• Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.

• Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.

All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening- what the test can and cannot do. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.

Current evidence supporting mammograms is even stronger than in the past. Recent evidence has confirmed that mammograms offer substantial benefit for women starting in their 40s. Women can feel confident about the benefits associated with regular mammograms for finding cancer early.

What to bring to the appointment:

• Photo ID.

• Insurance card (insurance should cover this at 100% as preventative care).

• Primary Care Provider's contact information (so they may receive the results of your screening).

• Wear a top that can be easily removed.