Benefits of Digital Mammography

• ore sensitive to detecting breast cancer in individuals with denser breast tissue.
• Usually requires less radiation.
• Results will integrate with the existing PACS system allowing for images to be electronically sent to doctors and other providers (regional Cancer Centres) for analysis.
• Biopsy results often available within 24 hours instead of traditional 3 weeks with film, thereby diminishing anxiety and stress on entire family and allowing decisions and courses of action to be determined quickly.

Key Stats

• 1/9 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, 1/28 will not survive.
• 180 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer, 50 will not survive.
• Early and accurate detection allows for earlier treatment and increases survival rate.

Why It is Important for Stevenson Memorial Hospital

• Stevenson currently completes more than 3300 mammograms each year. The more efficient screening test will allow for at least another 300-500 tests to be completed annually.
• Stevenson has been a leader in the provision of breast cancer screening services as it was one of the first hosptals in our area to join the Ontario Breast Cancer Screening Program.
• The Digital Mammography Machine includes a stereotactic unit which will allow Stevenson to complete mammography-guided biopsy services for the first time on-site.
• Having up-to-date equipment and technology is critical in attracting new physicians to our community.
• Earlier detection and management of a breast cancer diagnosis will have a far-reaching impact on patents and their families.