Breast Cancer Information

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer, following skin cancer, among women in the United States, and it is the second most common cause of cancer death. In some cases, it can develop without obvious symptoms.

Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer and Baptist Health Care has taken the lead in providing women with advancements in early detection.

Mammography
Women today are busier than ever—working, caring for children and maintaining a home are just a few reasons we are always looking for a few extra minutes. However, taking the time to schedule your mammogram could save your life. The American Cancer Society recommends women age 40 and older have a screening mammogram every year. Baptist Health Care provides women with six easily accessible locations throughout the community to receive a mammogram including:

• Baptist Hospital
• Gulf Breeze Hospital
• Jay Hospital
• Atmore Community Hospital
• Baptist Medical Park Nine Mile
• Baptist Medical Park Navarre

Breast MRI
To complement the Baptist Cancer Institute’s comprehensive breast care program, Baptist offers breast magnetic resonance-imaging (MRI) for early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. Baptist has utilized this innovative detection tool for breast health since January 2008.

Breast MRI uses powerful magnetic fields, radio waves and computer technology to produce detailed images of breast tissue. MRI also uses contrast to help highlight abnormalities in the breast. Breast MRI provides valuable information about many breast conditions that cannot be obtained with other detection tools.

According to Chung Nguyen, RDMS, RT(R) (MR), supervisor, diagnostic imaging/MRI, a breast MRI is recommended for women with a family history or a recent diagnosis of breast cancer.

“The combination of mammography, ultrasound, regular check-ups and our advanced breast MRI systems and 3-D computer-aided-detection (CAD) technology enables medical experts to identify the vast majority of cancer in the opposite breast, at the time of a woman’s initial breast cancer diagnosis,” said Nguyen. “If a diagnosis is given in one breast, we can scan the opposite breast to ensure no tumor is present or to develop a treatment regiment to treat both cancers.”

In a clinical trial by the American College of Radiology Imaging Network of women diagnosed with cancer in one breast, a breast MRI detected 91 percent of cancers in the opposite breast not seen by mammography and clinical breast exams. MRI scans are more sensitive and can detect tissue abnormalities earlier.
 
As a result, the American Cancer Society issued new guidelines for high-risk women to add an MRI scan to their annual mammogram. Mammograms are still imperative for early detection, as they are proven to detect breast cancer up to two years before a lump is large enough to feel.

Genetic Testing
Mammography and breast MRI are the best screening and diagnostic tools for breast cancer prevention, but innovations in science are now allowing women to better understand and identify their predisposition for cancer.

Although most cancers are sporadic, about 10 percent of cancers are hereditary—including breast cancer.

The vast majority of hereditary breast cancer is due to an alteration or mutation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes in the body. These mutations can be inherited from your mother or father and can be passed down to you and your children.

“When considering genetic testing for these particular cancer causing genes, we look for red flags in family history such as previous instances of breast cancer or relatives who already know they have a mutated BRCA gene,” said Pat Liebenguth, registered nurse for Baptist Hospital. “If patients meet the variety of criteria suggested, we advise them to test for the genetic mutation.”

The risks for developing breast cancer drastically increase for individuals who test positive for a BRCA mutation. Eight percent of women are said to be at risk for breast cancer. That risk percentage jumps to 56 to 87 percent for individuals who carry BRCA mutation.

Most health insurance plans cover genetic testing because it is now viewed as a preventative health measure. Typically, 90 percent of the cost is covered.

Comprehensive Services
A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but the Baptist Cancer Institute provides comprehensive resources for breast cancer patients and families that ease your journey to survivorship. Baptist’s Cancer Support Services helps you understand your diagnosis and treatment, provides emotional care with a variety of support groups and links you to helpful community resources.

A critical component of breast cancer recovery is having access to post-treatment resources that help individuals cope with self-image and appearance-related side effects. The Baptist Women’s Boutique specializes in mastectomy apparel for breast cancer patients. The Boutique carries bras, prosthesis, post-surgical bras for biopsies and breast cancer surgeries, swimsuits and lingerie. The Baptist Women’s Boutique is staffed by registered nurses who are certified as “Registered Fitter-Mastectomy” through the American Board of Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics.

Mothers, daughters and sisters alike can rest easy knowing Baptist is ready to care for you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Baptist Health Care at (850) 434-4080 or visit www.eBaptistHealthCare.org/CancerProgram. Trust Baptist to help you live a happy, healthy lifestyle.