CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - LiveWell

PROTECTING YOURSELF STARTS EARLY The American Cancer Society recommends a three-step approach for the early detection of breast cancer: 1. Monthly breast self-exams starting in your early 20s. About once a month, examine your breasts for any changes in appearance or texture, including lumps, and report abnormalities to a healthcare professional immediately. The American Cancer Society recommends lying on your back with your arm behind your head and using your hand to check the entire area of the breast slowly in an up and down motion. 2. A clinical breast exam every three years during your 20s and 30s. As part of a periodic well exam, you should have your breasts examined by a healthcare professional for any lumps, bumps or potential problems. 3. Yearly mammograms starting at age 40. Annual mammograms, one of the most reliable ways to detect breast cancer as early as possible, save lives. Annual screening mammograms for women older than 40 are still the gold standard for early detection of breast cancer. CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth is proud to be the first and only facility in Southeast Texas to offer Genius 3D mammography, which has been proven to find 41 percent more invasive, or lethal, cancers than a traditional mammogram. "3D mammography allows us to get a more complete picture of the breast," says Elizabeth Accardo, Regional Director of Radiology at CHRISTUS Health – Southeast Texas. "This is especially important for women with dense breast tissue." The Genius 3D mammography system at CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth also reduces unnecessary follow-up exams due to false alarms by as much as 40 percent. A COMPLETE PICTURE As a Pink Ribbon Facility recognized for providing excellence in breast health, our technology is just a part of who we are. CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth has the region's first certified Breast Health Navigators and a breast fellowship- trained Radiologist. Our experienced, compassionate professionals will be with you every step of the way, from the first screening mammogram to any follow-up care. Genius 3D mammogram appointments will be available soon. Schedule yours by calling CHRISTUS Outpatient Pavilion – St. Elizabeth at 409.899.7500, option 2. Breast Health A New Dimension In New mammography technology at CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth can detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. 6 LiveWell | January 2015

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